Château Filhot Sauternes 2016 (Half Bottle)

It is impossible to dislike Sauternes. I am not being facetious. Rich, textured and honey sweet with a sharp line of refreshing acidity, the best wines of the region are blatantly seductive. Filhot falls into this category. I could recall the classic flavours of ripe apricot, lime zest, caramel and mint. But to me, this tastes exactly like my mums pineapple upside-down cake, which I haven't had for 20 years. Effortlessly charming, silky and with a touch of sassy spice. Wonderful with fruit tarts, scallops or most classically, roquefort.

Founded in the early 1700s, Château Filhot has a rich history and enviable pedigree. The estate survived the French Revolution (though the proprietor was less lucky to lose his head by guillotine), is linked to the d’Yquem-owning Lur Saluces family, and was expanded into one of Bordeaux’s grandest properties in the 19th century. Classified as a 2ème Cru in 1855, Filhot later endured decline before a steady revival from the late 20th century. Today, under Gabriel de Vaucelles, thoughtful modernisation, native fermentations, longer élevage and refined oak use has helped to restore precision, balance, and acclaim to this historic Sauternes estate.

60% of Sémillon, 36% of Sauvignon and 4% of Muscadelle.