Wines Sauternes Château Haut Coustet - 2018

Château Haut Coustet 2018 is a sweet white wine from the revered Sauternes appellation in Bordeaux. Crafted predominantly from the Sémillon grape, with smaller portions of Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle, this wine is a testament to the meticulous labour and patience involved in producing top-quality sweet wines. The grapes are hand-harvested in several passes, allowing for the unique development of “noble rot” (Botrytis cinerea), which concentrates sugars and aromas. The 2018 vintage benefited from a warm and relatively even growing season, resulting in wines marked by both luscious sweetness and vibrant acidity, balanced perfectly in the glass. Fermentation and maturation often take place in oak barrels, imparting subtle notes of vanilla, spice, and a creamy texture, alongside classic aromas of candied apricot, honey, orange peel, and exotic spices.

Sauternes lies in the southern section of Bordeaux, along the Garonne and Ciron rivers. This microclimate is ideal for morning mists and warm afternoons in the autumn, conditions vital for the development of noble rot. The gravelly and clay-limestone soils contribute to both richness and freshness in the wines, enhancing their ageing potential and aromatic intensity. Sauternes’ winemaking history is centuries-old, and the region remains one of the benchmarks for sweet white wines worldwide.

When pairing Château Haut Coustet 2018, opt for dishes that can balance its sweetness and intensity. The classic pairing is foie gras, where the wine’s richness mirrors and lifts the dish. It also pairs beautifully with blue cheeses such as Roquefort or Stilton, the saltiness and creaminess being offset by the wine’s lively fruit and honeyed character. Lighter options include roasted apricots, almond-based pastries, or even spiced Asian cuisine. For a regional accent, try it with a traditional tarte Tatin from Gascony.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Sauternes well-chilled, ideally between 8-10°C. This temperature brings out the wine’s delicate aromatics and maintains a refreshing edge against its natural sweetness. If aged a few years, consider decanting for 30 minutes to allow more complex aromas to unfold.