This full-bodied Sauternes stretches the limits of botrytis. Offers loads of beeswax, almost moldy aromas, yet it is fresh and zingy with plenty of honey, spice, toast and lemon flavors.

Tasted as part of a vertical held at the chateau. To be honest, the 1989 is not as expressive as the 1988 on the nose, but it develops an attractive Aszu-like scent with aeration with a touch of chlorophyll. The palate is well-balanced with touches of rosewater and dried apricot on the entry. Somewhat surprisingly, this is quite a simple Sauternes wine and the 1988 shows superior tension and vigor. This is an acceptable Guiraud but to cut to the chase, it ought to be better. Drink now-2017.