Sauternes and Barsac 2011 & 2013: Top wines

<p>Bought by Lalique owner Silvio Denz, the estate was a fortress in the 13th century and takes its current name from Sieur Raymond Peyraguey, who purchased the property in 1618 and from M Lafaurie. He in turn had acquired it in 1796.<br /> <br /> The estate boasts 41ha under vine, of which some are exceptionally old, planted in the late 1920s. S&eacute;millon is most planted (93%), with a little Sauvignon Blanc (6%) and Muscadelle (1%). The wines are admired for their unique balance of power and elegance.<br /> <br /> <em><strong>Stephen Brook</strong></em><br /> Discreetly oaky nose dominates the underlying pineapple and apricot fruit. Very sweet attack, silky and almost racy, with fine purity. This has finesse and poise, and the balance and acidity should ensure a good evolution. Slightly exotic and candied with very good length.<br /> <br /> <strong><em>Sebastian Payne</em></strong><br /> Creamy and rich, this has considerably more depth than most in this vintage. For me, this is the star of the tasting.<br /> <br /> <em><strong>Xavier Rousset MS</strong></em><br /> Nose and palate of mango, quince and apricot. Balanced with well-integrated oak; rich but still has real finesse and character.</p>

Lush, waxy, stone fruits nose, with some honey and botrytis tones. The natural acidity will keep this alive for many years. Very rich and succulent, velvety, with grip and structure and lots of finesse.

Lush apple compote and apricot nose with a kiss of oak and a hint of lanolin. Unctuous texture – rich and powerful – but with enough fruit and acidity to balance. A unique, luscious but lively style. Stephen Brook 90 Sebastian Payne MW 93 Xavier Rousset MS 93

Firm, oaky nose, with ample stone fruits and mango lurking beneath. This has finesse and class yet is easy to appreciate. A stunning wine with fine concentration and acidity with a long, pineapple finish. Stephen Brook 95 Sebastian Payne MW 95 Xavier Rousset MS 86

<p>Voluptuous apricot and pineapple nose that is quite lifted and aromatic. Purity of fruit and racy with great concentration, without being too dense. Tangy with excellent balance and a fine future. Delicious!</p>

Reticent nose of apple and apricot. Palate of unctuous texture with honey and ginger notes. Very high acidity makes for an invigorating drink. The spicy finish lingers, and ensures it will develop nicely. Stephen Brook 92 Sebastian Payne MW 90 Xavier Rousset MS 91

Fresh and zesty with an almost minty-herbal edge. Deceptively rich as well (150g/L RS). Sweet attack on the palate, then long and linear on the finish. The acidity is present but wrapped in fruit.

<p>Heady, waxy nose shows botrytis, honey and ripe stone fruits. A good interpretation of the vintage, this is surprisingly forward and approachable with a lovely texture and finesse. Finishes long with a real zing.</p>

Delicate floral nose with intense flavours of mango, quince and ginger. Rich and svelte palate with good acidity to give plenty of cut and bite. Where else in the world can you find such a luscious wine with such a lovely finish Stephen Brook 86 Sebastian Payne MW 93 Xavier Rousset MS 90

<p>Opulent nose of apples, apricots and honey. Rich and creamy palate in a voluptuous style but with enough underlying acidity to keep it fresh. You can almost taste the skins of the grapes bursting with extract and life force.</p>

Charming apricot nose, not that sumptuous but elegant. Sweet but lean, with a silky texture, and pretty stone-fruits and pineapple. Not a heavyweight but lively and balanced, with a candied finish. Stephen Brook 89 Sebastian Payne MW 88 Xavier Rousset MS 91