In the news

Château Coutet, Barsac 2009: 97

 

Château Coutet, Barsac (Bordeaux, France) 2009 ($75) 97:  The wines from Barsac and Sauternes are undervalued compared to red Bordeaux because drinking these sweet wines at the end of a meal with, or better yet, as dessert, is falling out of fashion.  It’s a pity because a glass by itself or with a morsel of cheese is a perfect way to finish a meal.  At a recent tasting sponsored by the Union des Grands Crus de Bordeaux, an association of 132 top-notch producers throughout the region, Château Coutet’s 2009 stood out, not only among the sweet wines, but among all the wines, even the big name Bordeaux reds.  Not surprisingly, the 2009 Château Coutet was gloriously rich with undertones of apricots and spice, but its vivacity and energy is what set it apart.  Long and luxurious, its bracing acidity and verve keeps you coming back for another sip because your palate never tires.    Recorked and stored in the frig, the 2009 Coutet will stay fresh and thrilling for a week, so don’t be afraid to pour yourself just a glass. Michael Apstein Jan 31, 2012