The Château 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.

Barrel Sample. This wine shows great concentration, with rich honey and botrytis tones, leading to ripe apricot and peach. It's opulent and powerful character completely takes hold of the palate, yet by the end, lively acidity kicks in.

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. Best from 2020 through 2035. 3,417 cases made.