Château Loupiac Gaudiet 2018

Located just across the river from Barsac, Loupiac is a great source of exceptional-value sweet wines. While most châteaux in the appellation produce simple late-harvest wines, Château Loupiac Gaudiet employs a riskier and more ambitious strategy — waiting for botrytis cinerea to arrive and transform their Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc into something truly extraordinary. The results are far closer in style and quality to Sauternes than most wines from this appellation, while retaining Loupiac’s inherent freshness. The château fully deserves its reputation as the premier property in the region.

About This Wine

A lusciously sweet, rich, and full dessert wine made from botrytis-affected Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc. The 2018 vintage is a benchmark year for sweet Bordeaux, and this wine shows all the hallmarks of a great Loupiac — honeyed richness balanced by a vibrant natural acidity that keeps it fresh and elegant. With a drinking window of up to 10 years, it will only improve with time.

Tasting Notes

Colour: Deep golden yellow with amber highlights.
Nose: Inviting aromas of ripe peaches, orange blossom, and a hint of marmalade — classic botrytis character with great aromatic complexity.
Palate: Lusciously sweet with a delicious balance of freshness and ripe orange fruit. Notes of sweet spice and honey weave through the palate with elegance and precision.
Finish: Long and lingering with a refreshing acidity that lifts the sweetness beautifully.

Food Pairing

A classic partner for rich blue cheeses such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola, or a ripe washed-rind cheese. Also wonderful with fruit-based desserts, crème brülée, or foie gras. Equally enjoyable on its own as a contemplative after-dinner wine.

Details

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