L'Or du Ciron, Sauternes, Bordeaux, France 2018

The 2018 vintage was beset by hail, mildew and the late onset of noble rot, but nevertheless some good wines were made. This has unctuous flavours of lemon posset and honeyed apricots with sharper spikes of candied lime peel. A lovely accompaniment to rich pâtés or a cheese platter. In store only.

A classic Sauternes from Maison Sichel, with a sweet and toasty nose that mixes caramel, spun sugar and biscuit with fruitier red apple, mango and peach. The intensity of the sweetness and the fruit on the palate is balanced by a healthy kick of fresh acidity.