Chateau Coutet 2016

A remarkably well-balanced white wine from Barsac

Chateau Coutet is a Classified First Growth from the Barsac appellation. The 2016 vintage experienced perfect weather conditions for producing a great wine. Spring was quite humid and allowed buds to flower in good condition, summer was particularly dry, and there were light rains in August that helped the grapes reach the final stages of maturity. Botrytis arrived at the same time as the fog, the last week of September. Maturation for the grapes occurred homogenously, and botrytis cinerea could have developed under ideal conditions. Chateau Coutet is 75% Semillon, 23% Sauvignon Blanc, and 2% Muscadelle. Ageing occurs in 100% French oak barrels for 18 months. 

A subliminal yellow color with yellow-green reflections, Chateau Coutet 2016 is a joy for the eyes. Aromas of citrus fruits, pineapples, peach, and vanilla and with hints of brioche. The attack is proof of its power, expressiveness and creaminess. Next we can notice, the freshness in the mouth. The wine presents itself as smooth, dense and superbly well-balanced. The final is lively, perfectly expressing the terroir of Barsac.

Wine Advocate-Parker :
The 2016 Coutet has an intriguing bouquet, more exotic than I have noticed in the past, scents of tangerine and dried pineapple, not quite the mineral drive that I expect from Coutet. The palate is serviced back to normal: a very fine line of acidity, great delineation, taut and focused with a brisk and precise finish. I just hope that the aromatics get their house in order during the barrel maturation so that it matches the palate. At the moment, I will be prudent with my score.