A refined and pretty Sauternes with crushed apple, spice and dried pear character. Medium body with a fresh spice and intense finish at the end.

An unusually high percentage of Sémillon in the blend for Guiraud, a reflection of the unusual conditions of the vintage. You can see it in the concentrated amber colour, but on the palate this is well handled with bitter marmalade, saffron and truffle, and juicy lemon that gives contrast and grip. Harvest September 15 to October 27th, across three pickings. 134h/g residual sugar, 4ph. Certified organic. First vintage with Sandrine Garbay as estate director, moving over here from Château d'Yquem.

The 2022 Guiraud, back after being decimated by frost and now with former Yquem winemaker Sandrine Garbay at the helm, has a fragrant bouquet with quince, lemon curd, dried honey and saffron scents. It takes a while to find its groove. The palate is medium-bodied with a viscous opening and well-judged acidity. It's harmonious and sensual, with a pure, lightly spiced finish that lingers. Very fine.

The 2022 Giraud is very beautiful. In this vintage, Giraud is not quite as rich as it can be, and yet it still offers notable depth and nuance. Spice, ginger, orange confit and apricot jam open nicely in a mid-weight Giraud that shows terrific energy.

The 2022 Château Guiraud offers up aromas of spices, flowers and spring blossoms, followed by a moderately weighted palate with a juicy core of fruit, freshness and a bitter finish. This blend of 65% Sémillon and 35% Sauvignon Blanc, matured for 18 months in barrels, lacks depth and vibrancy for a Château Guiraud. To be re-reviewed in one to two years. This has 134 grams per liter of residual sugar.

65% Sémillon, 35% Sauvignon Blanc. Rather light compared with the 2023 but fresh and lively with some lemon flavours. Just slightly austere on the end. (JR)