馬斯卡隆蘇玳白蘭地 (500ml) 2019

Winery Background and History

Mascaron Sauternes is produced by Ginestet, a historic Bordeaux négociant house established in 1897. Ginestet has a longstanding reputation for crafting and distributing a wide range of Bordeaux wines, including those from prestigious appellations like Sauternes. The Mascaron label showcases Ginestet’s commitment to delivering high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroirs of Bordeaux.

Producer and Winemaker

As a prominent négociant, Ginestet collaborates with various châteaux and vineyards across Bordeaux to produce wines under its own labels, including Mascaron. The winemaking team at Ginestet focuses on selecting premium grapes and overseeing vinification processes that highlight the distinctive characteristics of each appellation. Their expertise ensures that Mascaron Sauternes embodies the rich tradition and quality associated with Sauternes wines.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The Sauternes appellation, located in Bordeaux’s Left Bank, comprises five communes: Sauternes, Barsac, Bommes, Fargues, and Preignac. The region benefits from a unique microclimate influenced by the Ciron and Garonne rivers, which create morning mists followed by warm, sunny afternoons. These conditions promote the development of Botrytis cinerea, or noble rot, which concentrates the sugars and flavors in the grapes, essential for producing Sauternes’ renowned sweet wines.

Vinification & Aging Methods

In 2019, Sauternes producers faced challenges due to acid rot and fruit flies, necessitating meticulous grape selection during harvest. Despite these difficulties, the vintage yielded wines with balanced acidity and opulence. The vinification process for Mascaron Sauternes likely involved gentle pressing of the botrytized grapes, fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks or oak barrels, and aging in oak barrels to enhance complexity and depth.

Tasting Notes

While specific tasting notes for the 2019 Mascaron Sauternes are not available, Sauternes wines from this vintage typically exhibit aromas and flavors of pineapple, mango, dried apricot, fresh and crystallized citrus fruits, ginger, beeswax, and marzipan. The palate balances luscious sweetness with vibrant acidity, leading to a long, elegant finish.

Food & Wine Pairing

Sauternes pairs exceptionally well with a variety of dishes. Classic pairings include foie gras, where the wine’s sweetness complements the rich, savory flavors. It also pairs well with blue cheeses like Roquefort, as well as desserts featuring stone fruits or almonds. For a unique experience, try pairing Sauternes with spicy Asian cuisine, where the wine’s sweetness can balance the heat of the dishes.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve Mascaron Sauternes chilled, at a temperature between 10-12°C (50-54°F), to fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and balance of sweetness and acidity. Use a white wine glass with a slightly tapered rim to concentrate the aromas. Pour gently to preserve the wine’s delicate nuances.

Storage and Aging Potential

Sauternes wines are renowned for their aging potential due to their high sugar content and acidity. The 2019 Mascaron Sauternes can be enjoyed young for its fresh, vibrant fruit flavors or aged for several decades to develop more complex notes of honey, dried fruits, and nuts. Store bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature to ensure optimal aging.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

Sauternes wines are typically blends of Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle. Sémillon dominates the blend, contributing richness and texture, while Sauvignon Blanc adds acidity and aromatic freshness. Muscadelle, when included, imparts floral notes. The exact percentages can vary depending on the producer and vintage.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

The alcohol content for Sauternes wines generally ranges between 13.5% and 14.5%. The 2019 Mascaron Sauternes is likely within this range, though the exact ABV would be specified on the bottle label.