Wines Sauternes Sigalas Rabaud - 1995

Château Sigalas Rabaud 1995 is a distinguished Premier Cru Sauternes from the renowned Sauternais subregion of Bordeaux, France. This wine is produced predominantly from Sémillon, complemented by Sauvignon Blanc and sometimes Muscadelle, which are traditional grapes for Sauternes. The 1995 vintage experienced a classic harvest, where the noble rot (Botrytis cinerea) played its fundamental role, concentrating sugars and enhancing the aromatic complexity. In the cellar, the grapes underwent gentle pressing, followed by fermentation and a maturation period in French oak barrels, which added subtle vanilla and toast notes to the intense palate of candied fruits, apricot, honey, marmalade, and delicate floral nuances.

The Sauternes region, nestled on the left bank of the Garonne River, benefits from a unique microclimate essential for noble rot to develop. Morning mists rise from the Ciron tributary, creating humid conditions that are gradually burned off by the afternoon sun—a vital process for botrytis to take hold. The soils here are a mix of gravel, sand, and clay atop limestone bedrock, providing excellent drainage and forcing the roots deep, which imparts additional minerality and complexity to the wines. Sauternes has a storied history, being celebrated since the 18th century as one of the world's finest dessert wines, treasured for its balance between luscious sweetness and refreshing acidity.

For food pairings, Château Sigalas Rabaud 1995 is a classic choice with foie gras, where the wine's sweetness and acidity cut through the richness of the dish. It also pairs beautifully with blue cheeses like Roquefort, or as an elegant match for fruit-based desserts such as tarte tatin or poached pears. If you prefer a savoury accompaniment, try it with spicy Asian cuisine or roast poultry with a honey glaze. For a truly regional pairing, a serving of cannelés de Bordeaux makes a delightful combination.

To appreciate the wine’s aromatic complexity and textural finesse, serve it slightly chilled, ideally between 10-12°C. Use a tulip-shaped glass to allow the bouquet to develop fully and enjoy sipping slowly as the wine evolves in the glass, revealing new layers with every moment. The 1995 vintage, with its mellow maturity, is drinking beautifully now but can still offer pleasure for those who wish to explore its delicate evolution over the next few years.