Chateau Mayne des Carmes, Sauternes, Bordeaux, France, 1990

The Sauternes appellation represents only 2% of the Bordeaux vineyards, yet it produces the most iconic sweet white wines in the world. It has a unique microclimate influenced by the cool waters of the Ciron River, which flows from the Landes into the Garonne River. The combination of the morning fog and afternoon sunshine creates the perfect conditions for Botrytis cinerea: noble rot, which transforms the ripe Semillon and Sauvignon grapes into golden wonders.

From Les Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite). Brilliant yellow with a touch of orange. Open nose of passion fruit, mint and just a touch of white tobacco. Flavours of pears, grapefruit and spice cake, rich but with an enjoyable fresh finish.