Chateau Laville - Sauternes 2018

"Château Laville is owned by Jean-Christophe Barbe and his family. Jean-Christophe's particular area of expertise as an enology professor at the University of Bordeaux is 'noble rot' which, as a producer of Sauternes, he has had plenty of opportunity to study at first hand.

The vineyards for Château Laville are on gravel soils underpinned with limestone. The best plots are used to make the Grand Vin. Several passes are needed (three to six) to ensure that only the most botrytised berries are selected. The wine is a blend of 85% Semillion, 12% Sauvignon Blanc and 3% Muscadelle. It is fermented in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks before being aged in oak (50% new) for 18 months to give it just enough complexity, while retaining freshness and the distinctive botrytis character.

A frequent recipient of awards, including several golds and a DWWA Trophy, Laville Sauternes is one of our best kept secrets."