Viniou Reviews
Clos Dady 2002 is a Sauternes AOC from the prestigious Sauternais subregion in Bordeaux, France. This sweet white wine is made predominantly from Sémillon, often blended with Sauvignon Blanc and a touch of Muscadelle. The 2002 vintage saw a temperate growing season and intermittent rain, a combination that fostered the development of Botrytis cinerea, or noble rot. This beneficial mould is the signature of great Sauternes, concentrating the grapes’ sugars and imparting unique aromas. Vinification here prioritises traditional methods: hand harvest in multiple passes to select perfectly botrytised berries, slow fermentation, and maturation in oak barrels bring complexity and longevity to the wine. Expect a deep golden hue, a luxurious nose with notes of honey, apricot, baked apple, and accents of toasted almond and acacia blossom. On the palate, Clos Dady 2002 balances richness and freshness, with a beautiful interplay between sweet fruit, vibrant acidity, and a lingering, elegant finish.
Sauternes itself is a jewel of Bordeaux, positioned on the left bank of the Garonne river. Its microclimate, influenced by morning mists from the Ciron tributary and warm, sunny afternoons, makes it perfectly suited for noble rot. The gravelly, clay-limestone soils help retain warmth and drain well, crucial for consistent grape ripening. Sauternes has a storied history dating back centuries and continues to be renowned for producing some of the world’s greatest sweet wines.
Pair this exquisite wine with dishes that highlight its subtle sweetness and acidity. Classic pairings include Roquefort or other blue cheeses, foie gras—whether terrine or pan-seared—or poultry with fruit-based sauces, such as duck à l’orange or roast chicken with apricots. Sauternes also pairs beautifully with desserts like tarte Tatin or almond-based pastries, and can even shine beside exotic fruit salads.
For optimal enjoyment, serve Clos Dady 2002 slightly chilled, ideally between 9-11°C. Decanting is not required, but allowing it to breathe in the glass will reveal its complex bouquet. This vintage is drinking beautifully now but can reward further cellaring if desired.
