Chateau De Cruzeau 2023 Pessac-Leognan Blanc

Tasting Notes

The Château de Cruzeau 2023 Pessac-Léognan Blanc is a highly expressive AOC Pessac-Léognan white wine crafted by the Vignobles Famille André Lurton family estate in Bordeaux, France. While white Bordeaux wines are traditionally a blend of multiple varieties, this specific estate cuvée showcases a pure expression of 100% Sauvignon Blanc. The grapes are grown on south-facing, gravelly hilltop soils that reflect solar heat and maintain excellent drainage, resulting in an exceptionally concentrated fruit profile. The 2023 vintage underwent whole-grape pressing and was fermented and aged for 10 months in oak barrels (35% new) on its full lees with regular bâtonnage (lees stirring), imbuing the final 12.5% ABV wine with a beautifully creamy, unctuous texture that contrasts its sharp varietal acidity.

On the nose, this crystalline pale-yellow wine reveals an aromatic complexity defined by crisp grapefruit, lemon zest, crunchy pear, and tropical notes of guava, accented by delicate touches of tarragon, lemongrass, and white flowers. The palate exhibits an energetic, taut, and well-balanced structure with a fine weight and a distinctively mineral, saline core. Waves of yellow plum and citrus fruit give way to beautifully integrated oak nuances, showing up as subtle hints of brioche, toast, and white pepper on the finish.

Given its harmonious balance of vibrant acidity and oak-derived texture, this dry white Bordeaux makes for a complex and versatile food companion. It pairs excellently with premium seafood dishes such as grilled salmon, seared scallops, or a traditional fish stew. The wine’s herbal and saline qualities also complement savory tapas, roasted pork loin, or aged hard cheeses.

Critical Acclaim

750ml