Wine Guide
Château Coutet
A rare wine to find on the investable wine market, Chateau Coutet has a small price tag but warrants a big look. Oenologists and sommeliers will no doubt draw a parallel with the more famous (and more expensive) Chateau d’Yquem, but if you are looking for a 1er Cru Classé that can keep for up to 12-35 years, then look no further.
One of the largest Barsac properties, the vineyard has been in the same family for over 40 years. The wine’s history, however, goes back to 1643 and was one of the first vineyards to be granted the Sauternes appellation. Chateau Coutet also holds the auspicious title of being “the best Sauternes in Barsac,” as decreed by Thomas Jefferson.
One of the largest Barsac properties, the vineyard has been in the same family for over 40 years. The wine’s history, however, goes back to 1643 and was one of the first vineyards to be granted the Sauternes appellation. Chateau Coutet also holds the auspicious title of being “the best Sauternes in Barsac,” as decreed by Thomas Jefferson.
Why invest in Château Coutet?
With its blend of 75% Semillion, 23% Sauvignon blanc and 2% Muscadelle, this Sauternes is really something special. A good year for the 38-hectare vineyard would see it producing 4,500 bottles. Savvy investors will note that when Coutet's Cuvée Madame is produced, it is only rarely and only in tiny quantities (often less than 1,500 bottles), therefore providing immediate investment opportunities.
Aided by the technical advisers of Chateau Mouton Rothschild, vinification takes place in oak barrels, before 18 months' extended oak ageing. The wines are aromatically complex and recent vintages have seen added concentration. Because of its superior ageing, certain vintages of Chateau Coutet are considered ideal investable wines.
Aided by the technical advisers of Chateau Mouton Rothschild, vinification takes place in oak barrels, before 18 months' extended oak ageing. The wines are aromatically complex and recent vintages have seen added concentration. Because of its superior ageing, certain vintages of Chateau Coutet are considered ideal investable wines.
Best vintages to invest in?
2014 was a phenomenal year for all Sauternes, but Chateau Coutet came out top on many blind tasting tastes. This is by far the best vintage to buy whether you are looking for one of best investable wines at a very reasonable price, or simply looking for something as an alternative for Chateau d’Yquem. Studies show that this vintage has exceptional potential for ageing.
Notable facts and vintages
- 2014 Chateau Coutet appeared in position number 3 on Wine Spectator’s “Top Wines of 2017”, receiving a score of 96 from James Moleworth, who noted “This shows the vivid, racy side of Barsac, with streaming flavours of pineapple, yellow apple, green plum and white ginger, displaying lovely energy from start to finish. Ends with enough honeysuckle and orange blossom notes to balance the richness. Best from 2020 through 2035. 4,000 cases made.”
- 2016 Château Coutet received Jancis Robinson’s 17+/20, and 95/100 points from James Suckling who noted “The vibrant tropical fruit-coulis character draws you into this concentrated and elegant Barsac. The crisp acidity and a wave of lemon and mineral character come through, driving the finish out in the direction of the horizon. Drink or hold.”
- 2015 Château Coutet received 18/20 points from Jancis Robinson “Looks very substantial in the glass. Floral nose. Massive weight. This tastes very substantial indeed and considerable botrytis influence. Quite a dramatic statement, although the finish, is surprisingly dry and appetising.”