Chateau Raymond Lafon 2003 (375ml)
- Vintage
- 2003
- Country
- France
- Region
- Bordeaux,Sauternes
- Size
- 375ml
- Rating
- WA95,WS92
- Grape
- Sauvignon Blanc,Semillon
It is against my better judgment to taste the sweet wines of Barsac and Sauternes at such an early age, as I find they typically require at least 12 months to reveal the definition/delineation so essential in these creamy, creme brulee, and honeysuckle-flavored offerings. Nevertheless, because this vintage is so highly regarded, I tasted through most of the top estates. The 2003s appear to be somewhat in the style of the 1990s, with high levels of residual sugar (higher than 2001 for the most part) as well as botrytis, low acidity, and fat, full-bodied personalities. This region’s harvest began extremely early (early September), and was completely finished within three weeks. It does not appear that the nobleness and racy richness of the 2001 vintage will be found in the 2003s, but readers who like the big, flamboyant, over the top style of the 1990s will enjoy the 2003s even more than I did. - WA95
Unctuous, boasting bold candied orange and grapefruit peel flavors that lead the way for lush date, glazed pear, pie crust and honey notes. Long and sweet through the finish. Shows the tropical power of the vintage, but stays refined enough. Drink now through 2020. - WS92
Chateau Raymond Lafon is located in Sauternes, Bordeaux, next to the vineyards of Chateau d'Yquem and very close to Chateau Suduiraut. It was founded in 1850 by Raymond Lafon, and was inherited by Louis Pontallier, a nephew of Lafon's, whose grandson, Paul Pontallier, is the director of Chateau Margaux.
Pontallier sold the chateau in 1952 to the Bourdier family, from which the current owners, the Meslier Family, (Pierre Meslier was the then managing director of Chateau d'Yquem) acquired it in 1972. The association and the proximity to Chateau d'Yquem explains why Raymond Lafon is produced in the exact fashion with the great sweet wine of Bordeaux.
The tiny 18 hectare vinayard is planted to 80% Semillon and 20% Sauvignon Blanc with vines that average 40 years of age. The wine spends 3 years in 100% new French oak barrels.