Wines Monbazillac Château Mautain - 2022

Viniou Reviews

Château Mautain 2022 Monbazillac is a beautifully expressive sweet white wine from France’s Sud-Ouest, specifically the acclaimed Monbazillac AOC in the Bergeracois region. Crafted predominantly from Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle grapes, the 2022 vintage owes its opulence to the region’s unique microclimate, which encourages the development of noble rot (Botrytis cinerea). This process concentrates the grapes’ sugars and flavours, resulting in a wine of remarkable intensity. Fermentation and ageing, often completed in stainless steel or oak barrels, delicately balance sweetness and freshness, yielding a golden-hued elixir with aromas of candied apricot, honey, orange blossom, and subtle spice.

The Bergeracois region, located just south of Bordeaux along the banks of the Dordogne, enjoys a temperate climate with morning mists and sunny afternoons, ideal for producing sweet wines. The clay-limestone soils enrich the complexity of the wines and foster the growth of the noble rot so essential to Monbazillac’s distinctive character. With a winemaking tradition dating back to the sixteenth century, Monbazillac has long graced the tables of French nobility. Today, it is celebrated for its luxurious dessert wines, which offer a remarkable alternative to Sauternes.

For pairings, the natural sweetness and vibrant acidity of Château Mautain Monbazillac 2022 make it a wonderful match for foie gras, a classic regional combination that elevates both the dish and the wine. It also accompanies blue cheeses such as Roquefort, fruit-based desserts like tarte Tatin or apricot tart, or even spiced dishes from Asian cuisine, as the richness and freshness cleanse the palate. For a more adventurous pairing, serve with poultry in creamy sauces or pâté.

To fully appreciate its complexity and aromatic intensity, serve this Monbazillac well-chilled, ideally between 8 and 10°C. Decanting is generally unnecessary, but allow the wine to breathe for a few minutes in the glass to let its layered bouquet unfold. Enjoy it now for its vibrant fruit or cellar it for a few years to appreciate greater depth and nuance.