Château de Fargues - Half Bottle 2002
The Château de Fargues 2002, offered here in a half bottle, embodies the seasoned elegance and depth of great Sauternes shaped by time. The deep golden robe with amber reflections testifies to a noble and perfectly controlled evolution. The nose opens with complex aromas of candied apricot, orange marmalade, and ripe exotic fruits, joined by notes of honey, saffron, and beeswax. Upon aeration, nuances of dried fruits, gingerbread, and delicate vanilla appear, signatures of a high-quality botrytis and a long, precise aging. The whole is deep, harmonious, and highly distinguished, without any heaviness. From the first sniff, the wine expresses the nobility of a Sauternes that has reached a superb stage of maturity.
On the palate, the attack is ample and silky, supported by a rich liqueur perfectly balanced by a still well-present acidity. Flavors of candied fruits, citrus, honey, and soft spices unfold with great precision, offering a creamy and enveloping texture. The sweetness, melted and elegant, never takes over, giving way to a remarkable freshness and length for a wine of this age. The aging adds additional complexity, with notes of fine wood, vanilla, and dried fruits perfectly integrated. The finish is long and persistent, marked by honey, saffron, and a delicate bitterness of candied orange that prolongs the pleasure. The half-bottle format particularly highlights this accomplished evolution, ideal for tasting between two.
The Château de Fargues 2002 is a wine for gastronomy and contemplation, intended for great dining moments. It pairs magnificently with pan-seared or semi-cooked foie gras, roasted poultry with dried fruits, blue cheese, or lightly sweet desserts based on yellow fruits and citrus. It can also stand on its own, enjoyed slowly to appreciate the full complexity of its evolution. Served around 10 to 12 °C, it fully reveals its balance between richness, freshness, and aromatic depth. Already at a superb peak, it can still be kept for several years under good conditions. It is a classic, refined, and timeless great Sauternes that brilliantly illustrates the demanding and noble style of Château de Fargues.
Grape varieties: Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc