Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey: A Sauternes Gem with Rich History
- The WineBeast
- Mar 6
- 2 min read
About Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey
Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey is steeped in history, with its vineyards primarily located in Bommes, complemented by parcels in Fargues, Preignac, and Sauternes. The 18.5 hectares of vines thrive on silica gravel, clay, and limestone soils. Vines were first planted here in 1618 around a 13th-century château, which originally served as a fortress.
This estate gained international recognition when Thomas Jefferson, during his 1787 visit to Bordeaux, purchased cases of what was then called Château Pichard-Peyraguey. Since its acquisition by Silvio Denz in 2014, the property has undergone extensive renovations, resulting in an impressive elevation in wine quality.
Focus on Sauternes Appellation
Sauternes spans 2,200 hectares, characterized by gravel and pebbles atop limestone soil with clay veins. The appellation’s microclimate, where cold River Ciron waters meet warmer River Garonne currents, generates autumnal mists that promote the development of noble rot (Botrytis cinerea). This phenomenon is essential for the concentrated, sweet wines the region is renowned for. Semillon dominates with 80% of plantings, supported by Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle. Sauternes is home to 27 grands crus classés, with Château d'Yquem as its Premier Cru Supérieur.
2003 Sauternes, Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey: A Vintage of Resilience
The 2003 Chateau Lafaurie-Peyraguey offers an enthralling nose of orchard fruits, mandarin, lemon zest, fig jam, and acacia honey. Its smooth, unctuous texture reveals flavours of pineapple, nectarine, dried apricot, grapefruit, and crème brûlée, accented by spicy undertones. A fine line of acidity carries through to a long, sumptuous finish.
Despite the extreme heat of 2003, this wine displays remarkable poise and complexity. At 21 years old, it retains vibrancy, blending richness with lively freshness. While it may lack the finesse of recent vintages, it remains a delightful expression of the estate's craftsmanship.
Blend of 90% semillon, 8% sauvignon blanc, and 2% muscadelle.
Why Choose Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey?
Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey is a testament to the artistry of Sauternes winemaking. From its noble rot-enhanced sweetness to its commitment to excellence under Silvio Denz’s stewardship, the estate produces wines that are both timeless and luxurious.
Whether you’re a Sauternes enthusiast or a newcomer, Chateau Lafaurie-Peyraguey offers an exceptional experience that captures the essence of its unique terroir.
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