Château Haut-Bergeron - Sauternes 2023

The two brothers, Hervé and Patrick Lamothe—who also produce red wines—run this very low-key but highly recommended family-owned estate. The vineyard spans the appellation’s four communes, comprising a mosaic of 80 different plots, some of which contain vines over 100 years old.

Offering excellent value for the price, the 2023 Haut-Bergeron reveals a complex, fragrant bouquet of pineapple, Anjou pear, grapefruit, and flowers, intertwined with notes of beeswax. With a medium-to-full-bodied structure that is round and dense, it is built around a core of juicy fruit and a savory texture; the whole is supported by lively acidity and concludes with a long, airy finish. 2026–2056

Opulent yet always very clean, it offers a dynamic palate marked by intense, well-defined toastiness; it is the archetype of a great, full-bodied Sauternes—intensely botrytized yet without any heaviness—and clearly suited for long-term aging.

Brilliant color, slightly cloudy on the day of tasting; a delicate nose of lemon tart and lemon curd, with a hint of smokiness, followed by mango; the energetic attack gives way to a rich, mouthwatering, and well-balanced palate; the citrus notes return, very elegant, with a subtle acidity that carries it from start to finish; a lingering, long finish. A superb balance!

What a wealth of detail, freshness, and depth in the bouquet of the 2023 Haut-Bergeron! It reveals inviting notes of ripe peaches, white-fleshed fruits, fresh mangoes, mandarin zest, and nougat (among others). Freshness and ripeness go hand in hand! The dense, smooth attack heralds a rich and concentrated wine, yet it also has vibrancy and is supported by its lively structure, while subtle bitter notes reinforce the finish and extend the aromatic persistence. A delicious, structured, harmonious, and very long-finishing wine. It will stand the test of time; it can be enjoyed young, aged, or even very old! 2028–2053

A golden color with coppery highlights. A delicate nose with aromas reminiscent of fresh apricot, candied orange zest, vanilla, and brioche. Notes of tarte Tatin emerge in the background. On the palate, the wine is complex and rich, with lovely acidity, juicy fruit, notes of apricot and candied citrus zest, as well as honey and subtle spicy notes in the background. Very nice length on the finish.