Our wines

THE WINE
Château Coutet benefits from an exceptional terroir. The vines' deep roots extract elements from a limestone and clay-based soil, giving the grapes freshness, richness and strength. For this reason the wine carries the name "Coutet,” derived from the Gascon's word for knife, to signify the fresh, lively and crisp palate that is the estate's signature style. In their youth, the property's wines display generous notes of white flowers, citrus fruits, honey and vanilla. Time brings out deeper, warmer notes in which spices combine with exotic nectars and candied fruits. Age also enhances the harmony of its roasted Botrytis character and its distinct aromas to give Château Coutet a delicate and unique bouquet that is unsurpassed.

NOBLE ROT
Botrytis cinerea is a fungus that concentrates the sugars in each grape via a multi-step interaction with the fruit. The result is a sweet nectar that is rich in distinct aromas such as honeysuckle, quince and ginger. This gift of nature is referred to as “Noble Rot” as it is the precursor to a great Barsac-Sauternes. The region's unique microclimate supports the Noble Rot's presence and development due to the morning mists followed by warm, sunny afternoons that enable the mold to develop abundantly.

VINIFICATION
Fermentation: In barrel for 3 to 4 weeks
Aging: 18 months in new French oak barrels
Average production: 42,000 bottles/year (3,500 cases/year)
Second wine: La Chartreuse de Coutet (AOC Sauternes)
The reserve: La Cuvée Madame de Château Coutet (AOC Barsac)