As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and evaluate numerous vintages of Sauternes, including the 2013 vintage. While it may not be considered a great vintage, it is certainly a good one, and there are some real gems to be found.
When evaluating the quality of a vintage, it is important to consider a variety of factors such as weather conditions, grape quality, and overall balance of the wines produced. In the case of the 2013 vintage in Sauternes, the weather was not ideal, with a rather cool and wet growing season. This posed challenges for the grapes, as they require noble rot (botrytis cinerea) to concentrate the sugars and flavors necessary for the production of Sauternes.
However, despite the less than optimal weather conditions, many producers were able to successfully navigate these challenges and produce wines of good quality. The key to success in 2013 was careful vineyard management and meticulous sorting of the grapes to ensure only the highest quality fruit was used.
One of the standout characteristics of the 2013 Sauternes is its freshness. The cooler growing season allowed for slower ripening of the grapes, resulting in wines with vibrant acidity and a lively, crisp character. This freshness adds a beautiful counterpoint to the rich, sweet flavors of the wine, creating a harmonious balance on the palate.
In terms of specific wines, there are some real stars from the 2013 vintage. Château d'Yquem, the most celebrated producer of Sauternes, produced a wine of exceptional quality in 2013. While it may not reach the same heights as other legendary vintages of d'Yquem, it still possesses the hallmark complexity and elegance that the estate is known for.
Other notable producers to look out for include Château Suduiraut, Château Climens, and Château Rieussec. These estates have crafted wines that showcase the best qualities of the vintage, with a focus on freshness, balance, and purity of flavors.
It is worth noting that while the 2013 Sauternes may not have the same aging potential as some of the truly exceptional vintages, it still has the ability to evolve and develop over time. Most wines from this vintage will continue to drink very well for the next 20 years, providing ample enjoyment to those who are patient enough to cellar them.
While the 2013 vintage for Sauternes may not be considered a great vintage, it is certainly a good one. The wines exhibit a delightful freshness and vibrancy, with a balance of sweetness and acidity that is characteristic of the region. While not all wines from this vintage will have the same aging potential as some of the all-time greats, there are still some real gems to be found that will provide immense pleasure for many years to come.