Haut Bergeron L'ilot Sauternes 2021

L’îlot de Haut-Bergeron takes its name from a small island — ‘îlot’ in French literally means ‘small island’. At the end of the 1980s, the Lamothe family purchased a series of abandoned plots located on an island in the Ciron, the famous river whose cool waters create the morning mists that encourage the development of noble rot in the Sauternes appellation. New vines were planted and are now reaching a respectable average age of 25 years. The fruit is hand-picked, followed by three or four rigorous selection passes to ensure only the finest botrytised grapes are used. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, after which the wine ages in wood for 12 months.

About This Wine

What makes L’îlot de Haut-Bergeron distinctive is its approach: the fruit is harvested earlier than most Sauternes, resulting in a fresher, more modern style that retains the floral lift and citrus brightness of the Sauvignon Blanc while still delivering the soft, rich botrytis character of the appellation. This is a Sauternes to enjoy young — luscious and fresh rather than heavy and oxidative — with the balance and structure to develop over the next decade.

Tasting Notes

Colour: Bright golden yellow with warm amber highlights.
Nose: Fresh and floral — lychee, citrus blossom, and vanilla with a gentle botrytis richness that adds depth without heaviness.
Palate: Lusciously sweet yet fresh, with soft rich fruit, floral notes, and a lovely natural acidity that keeps the wine vibrant and alive. The 12 months in wood adds a subtle, well-integrated complexity.
Finish: Long and honeyed with a clean, fresh close that invites another sip.

Food Pairing

A wonderfully versatile sweet wine — classic with rich pâtés, foie gras, or Roquefort. Also excellent with light fruity desserts, crème brülée, or fresh fruit tarts. Equally enjoyable on its own as a contemplative after-dinner wine. Serve well chilled.

Details

Grape: Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon
Region: Sauternes, France
Farming: Traditional
Style: Full Rich White
Serving Temperature: 8–10°C
Alcohol: 13.5%
Bottle: 75cl
Drink: In the next 10 years