Vinous – Keeping Everyone Happy: Southwold Bordeaux 2022

Finally, the Sauternes. You might assume that Yquem would have come up trumps, but on this occasion, its neighbour Suduiraut shone brightly. The Yquem was just behind, with creditable performances from the Lafaurie-Peyraguey, Coutet, Doisy-Védrines and Rieussec

Opalie 2022: 91/100
The 2022 Opalie certainly has one of the better aromatics, quite complex with touches of beeswax and linden, well defined with a little more energy than its peers. The Palate is well balanced, with a welcome hint of bitter lemon, good weight and a slightly tangy finish. Very fine. Tasted blind at the Southwold tasing in London.

Château Coutet 2022: 94/100
The 2022 Coutet has a perfumed, quite floral bouquet with yellow plum, marmalade and light swimming pool scents. The palate is actually better, with fine acidity, quite tangy with a dab of marmalade, gentle grip and a viscous, very persistent finish. This is a cut above and it should give many years of drinking pleasure. Tasted blind at the Southwold tasting in London.

Neal Martin