GUIRAUD SEC 'G' 2006

This is one of those few wines we seem to feature year after year...and for good reason. It’s consistently delicious. One doesn’t think of a premier Sauternes producer as a source for one of the most compelling value whites, but that has been the case with this Bordeaux Blanc. And with 2006 being an outstanding vintage for vin blanc sec in Bordeaux, this is the best Guiraud Sec we’ve ever tasted. Guiraud was just recently sold to a group of investors that include Stephan Von Neipperg of Canon La Gaffeliere, Robert Peugeot of the car company, and Olivier Bernard of Domaine De Chavalier and Guiraud’s current winemaker, Xavier Planty. In fact, 85% of it’s vineyard is designated to dessert wine while only 15% goes into the production of this ‘Sec’. Made from a blend of 70% Sauvignon Blanc and30% Semillon, the wine is barrel matured for 6-9 months with regular stirring of the lees which adds weight, texture, as well as provides additional complexity. The 2006 has more punch and intensity than previous examples. Perhaps it maybe the expert touch of Olivier Bernard who makes some of the best white wines in Bordeaux. Maybe Mother Nature gets an assist here too. But whether it’s the vintage or the new guard, the wine is brilliant with a luscious nose of of honeyed grapefruit, melons, orange rinds, and lemon oil. Medium-bodied, rich, beautifully textured, with crisp acidity and a snappy high-toned finish with a fruit component that reminds you of several tropical and citrus fruits, it’s downright haunting. Have it with oysters, grilled seafood, or just by itself on a warm summer evening. Stellar value, particularly given the current weak dollar!