Best since 2005? It has a unique style of botrytis intensity yet fresh, agile and bright. It's full-bodied, delicate and refined. The palate is full of figs, spices, dried mushrooms and earth. It lasts for minutes. It makes you want to drink it now!

The Chateau Suduiraut 2014 may well be one of the best Sauternes of the vintage. This year, it is a blend of 95% Sémillon and 5% Sauvignon Blanc with a healthy 145 grams per liter residual sugar and 4.5 grams per liter total acidity. It needed some coaxing on the nose so I afforded the sample five minutes of rigorous swirling. It was worth the effort as it reveals intense clear honey and mineral scents that possess exquisite definition, one of those aromatics that stop you in your tracks. The palate is clean and fresh with vibrant acidity, great depth and power as it fans out in glorious fashion on the bravura finish. The phrase “It will knock your socks off” comes to mind, so wear a couple of pairs.

On the flamboyant side, with mango and guava flavors out front, followed by hints of creamed pear and fig. The lush finish is coated with almond cream and toasted coconut notes.