2017
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Jurançon - south-west of Pau, in deepest SW France
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| Off-dry/semi-sweet white, aged in barrel for 12 months |
| 100% Gros Manseng |
13.0%
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Foie gras, Serrano ham, tarte tatin, cheese, or aperitif
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As good - lasts a good few days in the fridge
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Now, or to 2027 and beyond
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The colour is a bright, limpid, shiny, pale gold. As with the 2015 vintage, the nose is surprisingly complex, with aromas of quince, papaya, fresh root ginger and brioche, whilst the texture is once again both luscious and mouth-watering. An attack of bitter-sweet citrus and crystallised white fruits gives way to a wonderfully tangy, semi-dry mid-palate, followed by a long, lingering, tangy, sweet-sour, spiced orange marmalade finish. In the hierarchy of Montesquiou's sweet wines, this is strictly speaking the "entry level", and whilst it may not quite possess that "wow" factor that comes with the same grower's Grappe d'Or, it is in many ways almost as compelling and contrary. And although it would pair well with similar desserts to Grappe d'Or, it is even better suited to starters such as smoked ham, liver patés, foie gras and all manner of terrrines - or (given it is not too sweet) as a wonderful aperitif. Even for an estate that simply doesn't know how to make average wines, this is somewhat of a mini-masterpiece. |
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