2016 EP Château Sigalas-Rabaud
Straw gold with great hue. Very fresh and elegant nose profile: pears, small apricots and lemon; herbs; flinty tones. Expressing strong mid-palate, it is almost refreshing and cracky on palate with no dearth of intensity and ripeness, despite oak fermentation (French oak), oak ageing (18 months, 1/3 in new oak). Tastes unique.
We admire this wine’s historic tradition (From Sigalas, Rabaud, Ginestet to Cordier); the elegant makers; unique style; the potential; limited supply(only 2500 cases and being the smallest cru in Sauternes).
Controversial tastings and comments from international tasters.
92-94 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2016 Château Sigalas-Rabaud felt a little straightforward on the nose, floral but just missing the depth and concentration of its peers. The palate is medium-bodied with tangerine and clementine on the entry, a tang of lemongrass towards the finish that perks things up and suggests that there is better to come once this Sauternes is in bottle. (NM) (4/2017)
90-93 points Vinous
One of the most distinctive Sauternes of the vintage, the 2016 Sigalas Rabaud is powerful and almost tannic in feel, with a real punch to its flavors. The interplay of intense fruit and warm, toasty aromatics and structure are quite appealing. A hint of reduction adds nuance and freshness to the highly expressive finish. The Sigalas Rabaud is shaping up to be a jewel of a wine. This is an especially virile, potent style but there is certainly no shortage of personality or intrigue. Sigalas Rabaud is a Sauternes that demands attention, that much is obvious. (AG) (4/2017)
90-93 points Wine Spectator
A fresh style, with white peach, green plum and pineapple notes that set it apart from its more typical brethren, with verbena and honeysuckle through the bright and less obviously sweet finish. (JM) (4/2017)
91-92 points James Suckling
Pretty density to this young sweet wine with cooked apples, pears and spices. Medium to full body and a clean finish. Wait and see how it evolves. (4/2017)
