Introduction
Château Filhot Sauternes 2015 is a magnificent example of noble rot wine, hailing from the esteemed Sauternes appellation in Bordeaux, France. This region is globally celebrated for its luscious, sweet white wines, crafted through the meticulous cultivation of grapes affected by Botrytis cinerea, or “noble rot.” This unique fungus concentrates the sugars and flavors, leading to wines of incredible complexity and depth. Château Filhot, a Second Classified Growth in the 1855 Classification of Sauternes and Barsac, boasts a rich history dating back to the 18th century, with extensive vineyards perfectly situated on the gravelly, clay-limestone soils of the region. The 2015 vintage was particularly kind to Sauternes, offering ideal conditions for the development of botrytis and resulting in wines of superb concentration, balance, and the potential for graceful aging over decades.
Character Description
The Château Filhot Sauternes 2015 displays a brilliant, deep golden hue, hinting at its richness and complexity. It offers an intensely aromatic and evolving bouquet of apricot jam, marmalade, and candied pineapple, elegantly interwoven with notes of honey, saffron, toasted nuts, and a subtle touch of ginger and beeswax. On the palate, it delivers a full-bodied and lusciously sweet texture, balanced by a vibrant, refreshing acidity that prevents it from being cloying. Concentrated flavors of dried fruits, orange peel, and a distinct mineral freshness persist, leading to a long, expansive finish. The finish is exceptionally lengthy, nuanced, and remarkably pure, leaving a lingering impression of honeyed sweetness, exotic spices, and the profound depth characteristic of a great Sauternes.
Perfect Pairings
This opulent and complex Sauternes is an exceptional partner for a range of culinary delights, moving beyond just dessert. It famously pairs beautifully with foie gras, whether seared or in a terrine. It also excels alongside creamy blue cheeses like Roquefort or Stilton, providing a delightful contrast of sweetness and saltiness. Beyond these classics, consider it with fruit tarts (especially apricot or peach), crème brûlée, or even spicy Asian cuisine, where its sweetness can temper the heat. Its profound richness and balanced acidity make it an ideal choice for celebratory occasions, a sophisticated apéritif, or as a sublime end to a memorable meal.
About the Winery
Château Filhot is a historic and distinguished estate in the heart of the Sauternes appellation, boasting a heritage that dates back to 1709. Classified as a Second Classified Growth in the esteemed 1855 Classification of Sauternes, it stands among the region’s elite producers of noble rot wines. The estate spans a significant vineyard area, characterized by its gravelly soil over a clay-limestone base, which is crucial for fostering the optimal conditions for Botrytis cinerea to develop. The philosophy at Château Filhot focuses on meticulous vineyard management, careful hand-harvesting in multiple passes (tries) to select only botrytized grapes, and precise winemaking techniques that allow the unique qualities of the vintage and terroir to shine through. This dedication ensures the production of wines that are true to the opulent and complex style for which Sauternes is celebrated, offering both immediate pleasure and incredible aging potential.
