Le Sommelier Inc.

Varietals: Semillon 85-88%, Sauvignon Blanc 10%, Musadelle 2-5%

Soil type: Gravel and sand

Maturation: 16 years in concrete

Alcohol: 14%

Cases produced: 6000 bottles

Best drinking: 2009 - 2024

Suggested food: Pan-seared foie gras over poached pear/raspberry coulis

Tasting notes / Reviews: "A medium-gold color is followed by a buttery, earthy perfume revealing hints of tropical fruits and crème brulée. This medium-bodied 1979 displays surprising youthfulness (a characteristic of Gilette), good acidity, and a long, sweet finish. While not a blockbuster example, it is a noteworthy effort in what was a good rather than great vintage for Sauternes. Anticipated maturity: now-2012. Last tasted 12/02." 90 points, Robert M. Parker

"Bright gold. Almost fresh, youthful(!) notes of clean botrytis; peach, apricot, brown sugar. Fully sweet, full-bodied, high glycerol and extract with beautiful balancing acidity. A real treat." - John Szabo, MS, Oct 28, 05.

Light bronze colour; high toned caramel and orange peel nose, minerally and mouth-filling; creamy and unctuous, medium sweet - 5 Stars, Tony Aspler, Mar 25, 08.