Château Guiraud Description
With a great yield, we have produced a powerful wine, very aromatic, that presents a perfect alcohol-sugar-acid balance and an impressive purity of botrytis. The difference from 2009 is the cold temperature we had during August & September. That is why Château Guiraud 2010 has a spectacular balance and freshness always reinforced by 35% of Sauvignon. It presents intense aromas, hawthorn flowers, fresh fruit, with a minty note which characterizes the vintage. The feeling in mouth is magnificent, soft, but robust. The aftertaste is long. The sugar power never gives heaviness: It is the magic of natural sugars sublimated by botrytis.
Wine Spectator: 92-95 points
A thick, unctuous style, with marzipan, dried pineapple, mango and dried guava notes leading to a good bolt of toasted almond and pie crust on the finish. A muscular, well-stuffed version that will need some time to settle in. Best from 2015 through 2030. –JM
Wine Enthusiast: 93 points
92-94 A closed up wine, although all the elements are there, promising great final balance, richness and power.
Stephen Tanzer: 88-91 points
Yellow-gold. Initially inexpressive nose opens slowly with air to hint at peach nectar and pear, along with hints of guava, mango and caramel. Bright, dense and juicy, with strongly oak-influenced flavors similar to the aromas. Finishes pure and long, with bright pepper and honey nuances. The harvest began on September 20 and ran through November 2; the third and fourth tries out of six were the main ones. The high presence of sauvignon is typical of Guiraud, as 35% of its vineyard is planted with this variety; the average in Sauternes is closer to 15%.
