Château Bastor-Lamontagne 2019

Shows good energy from the start, with a mix of candied lemon peel, white peach and papaya flavors that are fresh and tropical. Ends with a honeysuckle note. Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc. Drink now through 2030. 500 cases made, 50 cases imported.

Named after Chevalier de la Montaigne, a councillor of the Bordeaux Parliament in the early 18th century, Château Bastor-Lamontagne is now under the ownership of the Helfrich family, owners of Les Grands Chais de France. A blend of 77% Sémillon and 23% Sauvignon Blanc, the 2019 vintage has a honeyed nose of acacia, marmalade, orange peel and a wealth of yellow fruits. With a sugar level of 120 g/l, the palate of apricot and orange jelly is seasoned with bitter citrus zest and white pepper spices. Immediately approachable, with great food-pairing potential.

White peaches, poached pears, honey, white flowers, vanilla and sliced mushrooms on the nose. Medium- to full-bodied and lightly oily with fresh acidity. Very pretty. Sweet-spice notes on the finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.

The 2019 Bastor-Lamontagne is just as impressive as it was en primeur. Bright and finely cut, the 2019 impresses with its energy and delineation. This deceptively light to medium-bodied Sauternes has quite a bit to offer. The style is floral and citrus-driven, but there is good depth too.

Vanilla, spiced honey, dried pineapple and apricot start things off. The wine shows a racy side with a lean to its lemon-curd and pineapple core of fruits. I like the lift and energy as it adds a raciness to the fruit. This will work well with spicy and savory courses. Drink from 2023-2035.

Kunz barrel sample 2020: (77% Sémillon, 23% Sauvignon Blanc, 13.5% vol. alcohol, production 20,000 bottles) Velvety, broad bouquet, citrus, molasses, honey, mint. Creamy, opulent palate with good sweetness, medium acidity, broad structure, good aromatics, plush finish.

(77% Sémillon, 23% Sauvignon Blanc, 13.5% alc./vol., production of 20,000 bottles) Silky, broad bouquet, citrus, molasses, honey, mint. Creamy, opulent palate with good sweetness, medium acidity, broad structure, fine aromatics, plush finish. 17/20 2024 - 2045

Mandarin and orange zest, with attractive juicy acidity and a touch of white pepper spice.

The 2019 Bastor-Lamontagne, 80% Semillon and 20% Sauvignon Blanc, is pale lemon-straw in color. It charges out with notes of lime cordial, green mango, and honeysuckle, leading to wafts of beeswax and lemon butter. The palate is intense and layered with citrus and mineral notions, finishing with impressive length.

Beautiful purity, very fine liqueur, intense length, very lovely fragrant balance

A superb bouquet marked by mineral and spicy nuances. Inviting aromas of quince, toasted almonds and peaches, followed by flinty notes. On the palate, the wine is fresh, smooth, balanced and endowed with a pleasant tension. So much character, freshness and harmony in this wine. One to try as an aperitif!

92-94. Barrel Sample. With restrained lusciousness, this wine reflects the lighter style of the 2019 vintage for the dessert wines of Bordeaux. The elements are there, with apricot jelly and textured honey giving the richness to the wine's concentrated acidity. The wine is sure to age.