Doisy Vedrines, 2018 2018

vinous 2005

Rating: 90 –90

Bright, pale yellow-gold. Peach and vanillin oak dominate the nose. Quite sweet and fruit-driven in the mouth, with powerful flavors of yellow peach, citrus fruits, marzipan and brown spices. A bit alcoholic today but rich and strong on the back end, in need of time in bottle.

vinous 2011

Rating: 92 –92

Bright golden straw-yellow. Pear, peach, mango and flowers on the enticing, lively nose. Intensely flavored, fresh and sweet, offering lovely penetration and definition to the ripe white stone fruit, lime oil and floral flavors. Really stains the palate while retaining a light touch on the finish, which hints at soil and coconut. This strikes me as more vibrant and less opulent than some past vintages of this wine, which I had found somewhat heavy.

vinous 2011

Rating: 90 –93

(5.7 g/l total acidity; 150 g/l residual sugar): Deep yellow-gold. Sexy, perfumed nose offers pineapple, honey, nutmeg, marzipan and spicy oak. Big, rich and voluminous as Doisy-Vedrines tends to be, but more refined than usual in 2011, offering enticing, sweet flavors of exotic fruits, spices and honey. Finishes long and sweet, with sexy oak notes of spice and coconut and plenty of spicy botrytis.

vinous 2011

Rating: 91 –91

The 2011 Doisy-Védrines had a lovely bouquet with peach skin, Mirabelle and orange blossom aromas that gain intensity in the glass. The palate is well balanced with a viscous opening, powerful with a lot of botrytis, though here, I am seeking more acidity and tension on the finish. Very fine, but might it pall after a few sips? Tasted blind at the annual 10-Year-On tasting.

robert_parker 2020

Rating: 91 –93

Pale lemon-gold colored, the 2020 Doisy-Vedrines is a little closed to begin, opening out to reveal fragrant notes of jasmine, lime leaves and orange peel, with a core of apple pie and ginger snaps. The palate is light on its feet with a refreshing line of acidity lifting the apple and spice-laced sweetness and delivering a long, zippy finish.

robert_parker 2019

Rating: 91 –93

Pale lemon-gold colored, the 2019 Doisy-Vedrines rolls effortlessly out of the glass with notes of crystalline orange peel, lemon tart and green mango plus nuances of honey-drizzled peaches, lime cordial and wild mushrooms in the undercurrent. The palate is wonderfully well-poised, featuring racy freshness that seamlessly lifts the sweet and savory flavors in the mid-palate and gives a burst of mineral-tinged energy on the finish.

robert_parker 2017

Rating: 94 –94

The 2017 Doisy-Vedrines is redolent of musk perfume, beeswax and lemon marmalade with lime cordial and floral wafts in the background. Rich and fantastically intense, the palate packs in the citrus and savory layers with a crisp backbone to balance and a long, lifted finish. I love the purity and energy of this wine!

robert_parker 2017

Rating: 92 –94

The 2017 Doisy-Vedrines gives up pretty lime cordial and lemon pie notes with a touch of mandarin peel and hints of chalk dust and ginger ale. The palate features super intense citrus fruit with great purity and depth, matched by wonderful freshness and a long finish.

robert_parker 2016

Rating: 91 –93

The 2016 Doisy-Vedrines was tasted on three occasions. The first, the sample seemed a little subdued, although two further encounters attest to a fine Barsac. The aromatics do not quite convey the sophistication of the Doisy-Daene, yet there is purity here, attractive dried honey and quince-like aromas, perhaps with the flair of the 2015 last year. The palate is well balanced and more refined than the Doisy-Vedrines of the past, a trend I have noticed in recent vintages. It gains plenty of weight towards the finish, delivering enticing honey, tangerine and light apricot notes with satisfying persistence. Good potential here.

robert_parker 2015

Rating: 93 –93

The 2015 Doisy-Vedrines has a lovely nose, a little fatter than its Barsac peers with dried honey, apricot, acacia and a touch of melted wax on the nose. I admire the delineation and intensity here. The palate is well balanced with a fine line of acidity, viscous in texture with honey, mango and quince toward the finish that feels more linear and perhaps more focused than some of the wines a decade ago. Great potential.

robert_parker 2012

Rating: 89 –89

Tasted at the château, the 2012 Château Doisy-Védrines has a light but harmonious nose: white peach, beeswax, walnut and dried fig developing in the glass. The palate is well balanced with a viscous, animated, energetic opening. There is a wonderful seam of acidity here, gradually building in the mouth toward a convincing orange zest and peach finish. It will probably represent an earlier-drinking Doisy-Védrines, one that will be eclipsed by the 2009 and 2011 in the long-term.

robert_parker 2012

Rating: 88 –88

Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting. The 2012 Château Doisy-Védrines has a clean, slightly smudged but pleasant bouquet of beeswax, caramelized butter, fig and honeysuckle. The palate is clean and fresh with good acidity, pineapple and white peach to the fore, though it falls away towards the finish (quicker than the bottle tasted at the property last year.) You might describe it as an "in and out" Sauternes insofar that it does not hang around after doing a decent job.

robert_parker 2012

Rating: 88 –90

The 2012 Doisy-Vedrines has a typically forthright, honeyed, nectarine-scented bouquet that does not quite possess the complexity or nuance of recent successes. The palate is well-balanced with plenty of viscous, tropical-tinged fruit cut through by crisp acidity, though the finish is a little disjointed at the moment. I believe this Barsac will come together during barrel maturation and it will constitute a commendable short to medium-term wine. Proprietor Olivier Casteja recently became president of Cru Classe de Sauternes et Barsac. He has always been refreshingly honest about the use of cryo-extraction, and in 2012 it was used on one-third of the crop just to ensure freshness in his fruit that were rained on every time they reached the pourri plein stage.

robert_parker 2011

Rating: 95 –95

Tasted blind at the Sauternes 2011 horizontal tasting. The Château Doisy-Védrines 2011 has a very fragrant, almost floral bouquet with pure honey, quince and yellow flower scents that soar from the glass and embrace you like your favourite aunt. The palate is medium-bodied with a viscous texture and superb acidity that really set this Sauternes alight: real tension and a sense of energy here. It just “flows” toward a vibrant, honeyed finish that has only just begun to “motor." This surpasses its showing from barrel and constitutes a magnificent effort from Olivier Castèja and his team.

robert_parker 2011

Rating: 94 –94

Tasted at the château, the 2011 Chateau Doisy-Védrines has a more mineral-driven bouquet than the 2009, more reserved with scents of beeswax, honeysuckle and jasmine. The palate is fresh and vibrant with viscous honeyed fruit, a dash of spice and a flowing, harmonious finish that has only just begun to start showing what it is capable of. This has great potential and may vie with the 2009 as one of the modern-day benchmarks from the estate. This is a fabulous Barsac from Olivier Castèja and his team.

robert_parker 2011

Rating: 90 –92

The 2011 Doisy-Vedrines has a far more taciturn bouquet than the Doisy-Daene, offering its trademark tropical, peachy aromas that will hopefully develop more delineation throughout its maturation. The palate is medium-bodied with a viscous entry. There are attractive spicy notes and a satisfying build in the mouth towards its botrytis-rich, tropical finish, although on this occasion I find it needing more tension to merit a higher score. Drink 2014-2030.

robert_parker 2010

Rating: 91 –93

The Doisy-Vedrines has a refined bouquet of lemon curd, dried honey and just a touch of quince, perhaps not quite as rich as recent vintages, but very well-defined. The palate is well-balanced, with a touch of lime cordial and passion fruit on the entry, and zesty acidity and impressive precision towards the taut, slightly spicy rich finish. Returning after an hour, this sample has enhanced clarity and volume, and subsequent encounters confirm a very promising Doisy-Vedrines.

robert_parker 2010

Rating: 91 –91

Tasted at the château, the 2010 Château Doisy-Védrines has an elegant bouquet that does not quite deliver the intensity of either the 2009 or indeed, the 2011, but there are delightful scents of citrus fruit, yellow plum and quince to enjoy and the aromas are nicely delineated. The palate is focused and balanced with the hints of passion fruit that I noticed before, precise and poised with a linear finish. There is a pleasing sense of energy and tension to this wine. I could even imagine commencing a dinner with this instead of finishing - why not? Drink over the next two decades.

robert_parker 2010

Rating: 90 –90

Medium lemon-gold in color, the 2010 Doisy-Vedrines comes galloping out of the glass with nicely mature baked pineapple, dried mango peel and apricot preserves scents plus touches of manuka honey, burnt sugar and candle wax. Full-bodied, decadently sweet and somewhat monolithic in the mouth, it has soft acidity and a honey-drizzled finish.

robert_parker 2010

Rating: 90 –90

Deeper in color than its peers, the Doisy-Vedrines 2010 has an animated bouquet with strong scents of tangerine, pink grapefruit and dried honey, although it is missing some delineation and refinement of one of Olivier Casteja’s best vintages. The palate is medium-bodied with a more promising viscous opening of tangy marmalade and quince. It actually improves in the mouth, with a defined and spicy finish. Hopefully, the aromatics will muster something to say with bottle age, as the palate is commendable. Drink now-2028.

robert_parker 2009

Rating: 92 –94

This is comparatively timid on the nose, giving very little away at the moment despite rigorous coaxing. But the palate is very promising, very well balanced, very focused with a fine citrus attack on the entry, fanning out towards an apricot, white peach and lime tinged finish that shows a great deal of unctuous honeyed fruit on the finish. This is an exuberant Doisy-Vedrines that yearns to offer pleasure.

robert_parker 2009

Rating: 95 –95

Tasted at the château, the 2009 Château Doisy-Védrines already exudes impressive breeding on the nose with complex, beguiling scents of dried honey, quince, walnut and just a touch of barley sugar. The palate is medium-bodied with layers of viscous, honeyed fruit, superb acidity and wonderful precision on the finish. There is a sense of completeness and harmony to this Doisy-Védrines. The 2009 represents the apogee for the estate and a Barsac destined to generously repay long-term cellaring.

robert_parker 2009

Rating: 95 –95

The 2009 Doisy-Vedrines exceeded my expectations under blind conditions. It is usually seen as a less refined Barsac predisposed to richness and viscosity, but the 2009 exudes far more tension and elegance than I anticipated. It has a perfumed, floral bouquet with scents of dried honey, melted wax, lemon curd and a touch of lemon thyme. It is beautifully defined and focused. The palate is medium-bodied with beautiful balance and precision. There is real grace and tension in this Sauternes: very focused and precise though with patently a lot of botrytis towards the mellifluous finish. This is a wonderful Doisy-Vedrines. Drink now-2035+

robert_parker 2008

Rating: 89 –89

Tasted single blind against its peers. Olivier Casteja created a decent Doisy-Vedrines that will be overshadowed by the previous vintage. It has an attractive bouquet with white peach, quince and spice. The palate is simple and primal, struck through with very good acidity with an uncomplicated, fat, honeyed finish. It does not possess the vigor or the tenacity of the 2007, but should drink well over the next ten to fifteen years. Tasted January 2012.

robert_parker 2008

Rating: 90 –90

The Doisy-Vedrines 2008 is a little subdued on the nose at present, although the palate demonstrates great balance and the trademark Doisy-Vedrines richness and viscosity, with clear honey, apricot, Clementine and a touch of spice intermingling on the very focused, succinct finish. This is a decent, trustworthy Doisy-Vedrines. Drink now-2020+

robert_parker 2008

Rating: 91 –91

Tasted at the château, the 2008 Château Doisy-Védrines does not have the same fruit intensity as the previous two vintages on the nose and comes across more resinous and understated. The palate is crisp and vibrant on the entry and goes some way in compensating for the aromatics. The acidity is very well judged and there is impressive tension on the finish: orange sorbet and quince fanning out in assured fashion. Enjoy this over the next 15 to 20 years.

robert_parker 2008

Rating: 89 –91

This has a well-defined nose of honey, white flowers and a touch of chalk dust – not the usual “fat” Doisy-Vedrines bouquet. The palate is medium-bodied, nice balance on the entry, good acidity, well-integrated oak, lacking a little weight and depth on the finish, but showing a nice degree of subtlety and grace.

robert_parker 2007

Rating: 93 –93

Tasted single blind against its peers. The Doisy-Vedrines 2007 has a typically ostentatious bouquet with ebullient tropical fruit, quince and orange essence with fine definition. The palate is medium-bodied with a very rounded texture, lovely pure honeyed fruit with orange rind and tang of marmalade. It is very generous towards the finish, which lacquers the palate in its decadent richness. Not quite in the same league as previous encounters but then, this Barsac always needs time to blossom. Tasted January 2011.

robert_parker 2007

Rating: 95 –95

This has a much more precocious nose than other 2007s: honey, apricot, peach, a touch of spice, mandarin and a soupcon of warm alcohol, in other words, quintessential Doisy-Vedrines. The palate is full-bodied, viscous on the entry and maintaining good balance, fine acidity cutting through the rich honey, quince and apricot fruit, with great definition and vitality towards the botrytis-rich finish. There is real pedigree here, and the 2007 surely represents their best wines since the triumvirate of 88, 89, and 90. This is a benchmark Doisy-Vedrines. Drink 2015-2045.

robert_parker 2007

Rating: 93 –93

Tasted at the château, the 2007 Château Doisy-Védrines does not achieve the same level of precision as the 2006 on the nose, although there is plenty of botrytis here with scents of melted candle wax and white peach. The palate is vibrant on the entry with impressive weight: hints of orange peel and apricot with a tender, almost understated finish. This improves in the glass, gaining more complexity and nuance and yet never quite demonstrating the sheer ambition as the 2009. Yet I notice even within the limited amount of time at my disposal some melioration in the glass, gaining harmony and tension and so I would not hesitate in decanting this very fine Barsac.

robert_parker 2007

Rating: 94 –96

This has a superb nose, comparable to Doisy-Daene, perhaps unusually with an even greater sense of minerality and delineation. White flowers, a touch of honey, peach and apricot. The palate is just superb, probably the best Doisy-Védrines I have tasted out of barrel with a greater sense of poise and definition than previous vintages. Lots of botrytized fruit, lemon zest, barleysugar, honey, a touch of marmalade towards the finish. Great length. Outstanding. Drink 2015-2045. Tasted April 2008.

robert_parker 2006

Rating: 93 –93

Tasted blind at Southwold ’06 Bordeaux tasting. The nose is very closed despite some rigorous coaxing. There is something Germanic, Mosel-like about the aromas, touches of honey, barley sugar and a touch of white peach. The palate is medium-bodied, viscous on the entry, fine balance, very focused and backward. Good level of botrytis in this wine, caressing the palate, very pure honeyed fruits on the rich but finish. Excellent. Tasted January 2010.

robert_parker 2006

Rating: 93 –93

Tasted at the château, the 2006 Château Doisy-Védrines has a precise bouquet with more mineral intensity than the 2004: very focused and harmonious with citrus-fresh, honeyed fruit laced with orange peel and apricot. The palate is fresh and vibrant with fine acidity and tension. This is pure and harmonious, almost sensual on the finish that is stylistically more Sauternes than Barsac. This is evolving into a very fine Doisy-Védrines with tension and intensity embroidered from start to finish.

robert_parker 2006

Rating: 91 –93

A very expressive nose, tropical fruits, honey, well-integrated new oak, good definition. Gets better with aeration. A crisp, well defined palate with attractive honeyed fruits, orange zest and a nice citrus kick towards the finish. Just lacks the depth of flavour compared to Doisy Daene, but there is still an attractive joie-de-vivre, plus the strict selection of grapes has rid the wine of any rot. Very fine effort, very pretty and elegant. Tasted March 2007.

robert_parker 2006

Rating: 86 –86

Fat, monolithic, flabby, and too sweet, without enough acidity, this wine comes across as a somewhat disjointed fruit bomb with no nuances or complexity. Perhaps it is going through a difficult stage, but it didn’t show well among the other wines from the Barsac and Sauternes region.

robert_parker 2006

Rating: 92 –92

Tasted at the Doisy-Vedrines vertical at the chateau. Bottled at the beginning of June. This is much more reticent on the nose coming after the 2007, but it unfurls nicely revealing notes of ripe pear, a touch of honey and white peach. Good definition but without the ambition of the ensuing vintage. The palate has a rounded entry, lots of botrytis here, ebullient lemon, orange-blossom, apricot notes, very feminine with good precision on the crisp finish (like Climens ’06.) Very fine, but will drink sooner than the 2007. Drink 2010-2030+. Tasted September 2008

robert_parker 2005

Rating: 91 –91

Tasted blind at the 10-Year On Tasting in Sauternes. The 2005 Château Doisy-Védrines has a rich and decadent bouquet, very honeyed and forward, perhaps missing the precision of the Doisy-Daëne. The palate is rich and powerful with notes of honey, tangerine and marmalade. The finish feel unctuous in the layered in the mouth – a typical Doisy-Védrines of this era, though I think Olivier Castèja produces a more sophisticated Barsac these days. However, a second bottle opened was fresher and more vital, though I will remain conservative with my score.

robert_parker 2005

Rating: 91 –91

This has a lovely ripe sweet, honeyed palate with white peach and white flowers. Good level of botrytis on the palate, not as minerally as Doisy Daene but with its usual focus and poise. Lovely floral, peach-inspired finish and good length to boot. Very fine. Tasted April 2007.

robert_parker 2005

Rating: 90 –92

A similar nose to Daene, perhaps lacking a little character at the moment. Palate is well-balanced, good acidity, lemon and peachy fruits. Closed on the finish. Needs time. Tasted April 2006.

robert_parker 2005

Rating: 88 –88

No tasting note given.

robert_parker 2005

Rating: 90 –90

Tasted single blind at Southwold. This is quite tight on the nose with touches of chalk, white peach and a little passion fruit. Fine definition on the palate although not quite as expressive and vibrant as de Fargues. More delicate and minerally towards the finish. Very fine. Drink now-2025. Tasted January 2009.

robert_parker 2005

Rating: 91 –91

Tasted at the Doisy-Vedrines vertical at the chateau. The 2005 is rather reticent on the nose, tightly wound honeyed fruit, a touch of chalk and a stony quality coming through. Good definition. The palate is medium-bodied, fruit-driven entry with lifted orange, mandarin and peach flavours, though perhaps just lacking the precision and deftness of touch that the 2006 exudes towards the finish. Good weight though. Very fine. Drink 2009-2025 Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 2004

Rating: 91 –91

The 2004 Doisy-Vedrines appears to be maturing nicely, the nose far more exuberant and engaging than the Doisy-Daene, attired with seductive scents of butterscotch, creme caramel and just a touch of chlorophyll. The palate is viscous on the entry with nicely judged acidity. This feels fat in the mouth, with good weight and depth on the satisfying finish. This is a highly recommended Sauternes for the vintage. Drink now-2025. Tasted February 2014.

robert_parker 2004

Rating: 92 –92

Tasted at the château, the 2004 Château Doisy-Védrines was one of the surprises of the vertical tasting. It has a delightful fresh bouquet with orange peel, honey, tinned apricot and crème brûlée aromas that are well defined. The palate is medium-bodied with a viscous opening, well-judged acidity and a vibrant, tensile finish that feels long and vivacious. Drinking beautifully now, the 2004 will last another 20 years with ease. This is a little gem from Olivier Castèja.

robert_parker 2004

Rating: 88 –90

An attractive buttery nose with white flowers and a touch of vanilla. Good balanced on the palate with fine acidity. Fresh, dainty. Not a complex wine but pretty and feminine. Medium-term drinking. Tasted April 2005.

robert_parker 2004

Rating: 92 –92

Tasted at the Doisy-Vedrines vertical at the chateau. Again, like the Climens 2004 this is not saying so much on the nose, but has pure scents of white flowers, apple and wild honey, with limestone coming through with time in the glass. The palate is different though, showing compact, very pure honeyed fruit, superb acidity and real cohesiveness towards the finish. Peach, apricots and just a touch of quince. The finish is very fresh and satisfying. Perhaps a little like the 2006? Excellent. Drink now-2025+ Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 2003

Rating: 86 –86

Ex-chateau bottle tasted blind in Sauternes. I have huge respect for Olivier Casteja, but the ’03 Doisy-Vedrines has never been one of my preferred vintages. Under blind conditions, it is missing some complexity on the nose with simple honeysuckle and quince aromas that need more delineation. The palate is actually better with quince and bitter orange, although there is a touch of flatness towards the finish that does not leave you compelled to take another sip. Tasted April 2013.

robert_parker 2003

Rating: 86 –86

Tasted at the château, the 2003 Château Doisy-Védrines has a slightly muffled bouquet with dried orange peel and melted wax aromas. The palate is full-bodied, rich and unctuous, though it needs more acidity and feels a little fat and laboured on the finish. This is enjoyable but I feel it is treading water compared to other vintages.

robert_parker 2003

Rating: 90 –92

A light nose than Daene with notes of pineapple and lemon. Lacks a little complexity and verve but there is a pretty mid-palate of apricot and orange peel with a touch of marmalade on the finish. Moderate levels of botrytis - I don't think this has the aging potential of Daene but still and excellent wine. Tasted again after bottling at the UGC in October 2005. A light nose that upon reexamining my pre-bottling notes has changed little with aromas of pineapple, lemon plus a little chalk this time. The palate is well-balanced with notes of sweet grapefruit, creme brulee and coconut. Moderate level of botrytised fruit with a hint of marmalade on the finish. Medium length. Understated, quite feminine and attractive, though I would drink this before Doisy-Daene.

robert_parker 2003

Rating: 89 –92

It is against my better judgment to taste the sweet wines of Barsac and Sauternes at such an early age, as I find they typically require at least 12 months to reveal the definition/delineation so essential in these creamy, creme brulee, and honeysuckle-flavored offerings. Nevertheless, because this vintage is so highly regarded, I tasted through most of the top estates. The 2003s appear to be somewhat in the style of the 1990s, with high levels of residual sugar (higher than 2001 for the most part) as well as botrytis, low acidity, and fat, full-bodied personalities. This region’s harvest began extremely early (early September), and was completely finished within three weeks. It does not appear that the nobleness and racy richness of the 2001 vintage will be found in the 2003s, but readers who like the big, flamboyant, over the top style of the 1990s will enjoy the 2003s even more than I did. Unlike most of my red wine tastings, this offering was only tasted once. Readers should keep in mind that this a very early, pre-bottling judgment from very unevolved wine that is not nearly as defined and easy to evaluate as the reds.

robert_parker 2003

Rating: 90 –90

No tasting note was given.

robert_parker 2003

Rating: 90 –92

Space limitations preclude including tasting notes. 2003 is a rich, sweet vintage of powerful, full-bodied wines that possess huge levels of glycerin, alcohol, and residual sugar.

robert_parker 2003

Rating: 86 –86

Tasted at the Doisy-Vedrines vertical at the chateau. The nose is lacking the vibrancy and the precision of the 2004, this is more stony and minerally in quality with touches of pear and apple. The palate is medium-bodied, lots of honeyed fruit, lacking a little complexity though, the finish rounded, honeyed but lacking a little tension. This will be an earlier-drinking Doisy-Vedrines. Slight bitterness on the finish. Drink now-2015. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 2002

Rating: 89 –91

I suspect most readers will find it hard to get excited about the 2002 vintage for the sweet wines of Barsac and Sauternes after what appears to be a prodigious 2001. However, 2002 is a very fine year for this region, possibly superior to any of the vintages between 2000 and 1991. The wines possess plenty of botrytis, but neither the impressive definition nor supreme elegance of the 2001s. This is a sweet, full-bodied, fat, concentrated, intense effort that was showing well in September, 2003.

robert_parker 2002

Rating: 88 –88

Tasted at the château, the 2002 Château Doisy-Védrines has a slightly disjointed bouquet with undergrowth and waxy aromas on the nose. The palate is fresh on the entry and well balanced. It feels rich with plenty of botrytis for the vintage,weighty on the waxy-textured finish with orange zest, quince and fig. If the nose could find a little more breeding then this would deserve a higher score but as such, it is a vintage that I would be approaching now rather than later.

robert_parker 2002

Rating: 88 –89

First tasted in April 2003: a much more refined nose here, compared to other 2002's. Notes of orange and peach - very sweet, almost cloying. The medium-bodied palate has moderate acidity, notes of orange zest and lemon with little botrytis. Of course, the 2001 is much better but as usual this is a well-made Barsac. A month later: less potent on the nose that Daene. Hints of white flower and coconut. A pretty wine that lack a little depth. Again, a lower level of botrytis for Vedrines. Probably fine to drink around 2006-2010. Tasted May 2003.

robert_parker 2002

Rating: 89 –89

Space limitations preclude including tasting notes. 2002 was an average vintage.

robert_parker 2002

Rating: 89 –89

Tasted at the Doisy-Vedrines vertical at the chateau. This is a little closed on the nose but like the 2003, has a minerally quality coming through, with touches of limestone, red apple, coconut and white flowers. Moderate definition, not quite as harmonious as I would like, although that should come with further bottle ageing. The palate is medium-bodied, good acidity, just lacking a little resolution, with touches of barley sugar and mandarin towards the finish. Moderate length. This needs more bottle age but should come into its own. Drink now-2020. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 2001

Rating: 93 –93

Having tasted the Doisy-Vedrines 2001 on numerous occasions, I was expecting great things. Here under blind conditions – it delivered. It has always sported a wonderful bouquet with well defined citrus-driven fruit, augmented by orange blossom and barley sugar scents, hints of lemon curd in the background. The palate is well balanced with crisp acidity. Orange peel and apricot abound and lead to a focused and beautifully defined tense finish that contradict this estate's tendency towards fatness and richness. This is a great Barsac from Olivier Castèja and has a bright future ahead.

robert_parker 2001

Rating: 89 –91

Light gold with a gorgeous nose of tropical fruits, caramel, spice, and honey, this rich, intense, full-bodied Sauternes is moderately sweet with good acidity and loads of fruit and flesh. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2016.

robert_parker 2001

Rating: 92 –92

Tasted blind at Bordeaux Index’s 10-Year On horizontal. This has a more introverted nose at first but it opens up with notes of Clementine, clear honey, acacia and apricot. Once again, very pure with fine delineation and excellent mineralite. The palate is medium-bodied with a viscous entry, a great deal of botrytis here, good acidity but just cutting away a little short on the finish. Tasted March 2011.

robert_parker 2001

Rating: 90 –90

Tasted at the château, the 2001 Château Doisy-Védrines has an attractive honeysuckle and butterscotch bouquet, well defined with just a touch of wet wool. Returning after 10 minutes it does appear to have lost some of its panache and complexity. The palate is clean and fresh on the entry: tangerine and honey, dried orange peel and a focused, tensile finish that feels long in the mouth, but like the aromatics, aeration seems to take this Barsac apart at the seams and it falls just a little flat. I must confess that this particular vintage did not match previous, more impressive showings.

robert_parker 2001

Rating: 89 –89

Medium gold-colored with a greenish nuance, this is a fruit bomb-styled Sauternes revealing aromas of smoky oak overlaying orange marmalade characteristics. Uncomplicated, sweet, rich, concentrated, obvious, and blatantly commercial, it will drink well for 10-12 years.

robert_parker 2001

Rating: 92 –94

First tasted May-02 and then several time thereafter when it has consistently been a delight. Last tasted in May 2005 at CECWINE where it was voted many persons' "wine of the night." A gorgeous zesty, peachy nose with superb definition. The palate is poised, focused, floral and peachy. Very cohesive but more backward than the 1999. Crisp acidity lifts this wine beautifully. Superb. Drink from 2008.

robert_parker 2001

Rating: 90 –92

First tasted May-02 and then several time thereafter when it has consistently been a delight. Last tasted in May 2005 at CECWINE where it was voted many persons' "wine of the night." A gorgeous zesty, peachy nose with superb definition. The palate is poised, focused, floral and peachy. Very cohesive but more backward than the 1999. Crisp acidity lifts this wine beautifully. Superb. Drink from 2008. (No tasting note was provided in Issue 140. We have instead included the text of the tasting note from the 2002 Neal Martin’s Wine Journal)

robert_parker 2001

Rating: 93 –93

Tasted at the Doisy-Vedrines vertical at the chateau. A lucid light golden hue. Once again there is a minerality on the nose, limestone and Alpine stream with touches of honey and smoke. The palate is very vibrant, racy, beautifully balanced and very well focused with a real sense of minerality coming through. Fresh and vibrant, lovely ripe honeyed fruit with touches of orange blossom, apricot and peach. A feminine Doisy-Vedrines. Excellent, but give it more time for the bouquet to open. Drink now-2030+ Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 2000

Rating: 88 –88

Copious quantities of honeyed apricot and white corn characteristics emerge from this light golden-colored 2000. However, it seems a bit simple compared to its younger sibling, the 2001. Anticipated maturity: Now-2012.

robert_parker 2000

Rating: 85 –85

Tasted at the Doisy-Védrines vertical at the château, the 2000 Château Doisy-Védrines is lacking a little freshness and fruit intensity on the nose. There are aromas of cold stone and a touch of apple and grapefruit, although they are not particularly engaging. The palate is better, medium-bodied, moderate fruit intensity with light honeyed, apricot-tinged fruit. It has decent acidity but it lacks weight and complexity on the finish, feels clipped. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 2000

Rating: 85 –87

At the UGC in November 2002, the 2000 had remained quite broody and adolescent. A delicate floral nose. Rich, more botrytis here as usual. Not complex but fine honeyed fruits with citrus edge. Not long-term.

robert_parker 2000

Rating: 85 –85

Tasted at the Doisy-Vedrines vertical at the chateau. This is lacking a little freshness and fruit intensity on the nose. Cold stones, a touch of apple and grapefruit, although not particularly engaging. The palate is better, medium-bodied, moderate fruit intensity with light honeyed, apricot-tinged fruit, good acidity but lacking some weight and complexity on the finish. A little clipped. Drink now-2015. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1999

Rating: 88 –88

Tasted at the Doisy-Védrines vertical at the château, the 1999 Château Doisy-Védrines is a noticeably deeper color and is almost identical in appearance to the 1990! It has a deep and less refined nose than more recent vintages with touches of marmalade, orange-blossom and apricot. It is a little oxidative, but nothing that detracts from the overall quality. The palate is medium-bodied with notes of mandarin, orange peel and pineapple, although it perhaps lacks some complexity on the finish with barley sugar and Clementine lingering on the aftertaste. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1999

Rating: 85 –87

Rather inconsistent from bottle to bottle, this 1999 was last tasted in May 2005 at the CECWINE event. A fine Doisy-Vedrines although not the calibre of the 2001. A crisp marmalade nose is followed by quite a rich palate. Below average levels of botrytis. Quite fat and eager to please, but the balance is not quite there. Fine for drinking over four or five years.

robert_parker 1999

Rating: 88 –88

Tasted at the Doisy-Vedrines vertical at the chateau. A noticeably deeper colour that makes it look like a 1990! This has a deeper, less feminine nose than more recent vintages with touches of marmalade, orange-blossom and apricot. A touch oxidative, but nothing that detracts from the overall quality. The palate is medium-bodied with notes of mandarin, orange peel and pineapple, although it perhaps lacks some complexity on the finish, with barley sugar and Clementine lingering on the aftertaste. Drink now-2018. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1998

The pale to medium gold colored 1998 Doisy-Vedrines is a little tired, with baked pears and dried apple slices on the nose with some fresh hay notes in the background. There's plenty of sweetness and acidity in the mouth, but the fruit has faded.

robert_parker 1998

Rating: 87 –89

Tasted several times, the last in Tokyo at the Michael Broadbent seminar in April 2004. A slightly deeper colour than the German Auslese tasted before. Lemon with lime tints. The palate had apricots and a touch of whipped cream. Very fresh though lacks the richness it displayed a few years ago. The palate has good acidity, medium-sweet with moderate levels of botrytis. Still quite primal but not complex. "A pretty teenager" were the exact words I wrote. (No tasting note was provided in Issue 128. We have instead included the text of the tasting note from the 2000 Neal Martin’s Wine Journal)

robert_parker 1998

Rating: 90 –90

Tasted at the Doisy-Védrines vertical at the château, the 1998 Château Doisy-Védrines has moderate intensity on the nose, which is a little closed. There are faint scents of cooking apple, pear, grapefruit and just a touch of honey. I would like a little more complexity at this stage. But the palate is certainly very well balanced, natural and with good acidity. It is very well defined and focused with notes of honey, quince and apricot and then more white peach on the finish. This 1998 Barsac has good length and it builds nicely. Decanting would certainly benefit this wine. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1998

Rating: 88 –89

Tasted several times, the last in Tokyo at the Michael Broadbent seminar in April 2004. A slightly deeper colour than the German Auslese tasted before. Lemon with lime tints. The palate had apricots and a touch of whipped cream. Very fresh though lacks the richness it displayed a few years ago. The palate has good acidity, medium-sweet with moderate levels of botrytis. Still quite primal but not complex. "A pretty teenager" were the exact words I wrote.

robert_parker 1998

Rating: 90 –90

Tasted at the Doisy-Vedrines vertical at the chateau. The 1998 has moderate intensity on the nose, which is a little closed with scents of cooking apple, pear, grapefruit and just a touch of honey. I would like a little more complexity at this stage. But the palate is certainly very well balanced, natural, good acidity, very well defined and focused with notes of honey, quince and apricot, leading to more white peach on the finish. Good length, builds nicely throughout. Decanting would certainly benefit this wine. Drink now-2020+ Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1997

Rating: 87 –87

(No tasting note given)

robert_parker 1997

Rating: 89 –89

Tasted at the Doisy-Védrines vertical at the château, the 1997 Château Doisy-Védrines has a noticeably deep colour, much like the 1999. This nose is lacking a little definition, perhaps too oxidative with notes of walnut oil, linseed and orange peel. The palate is powerful although lacks the finesse that more recent vintages have shown. There is "burly" honeyed and apricot-tinged fruit with a touch of mandarin and lemongrass. It is just a little too assertive on the finish and I notice some Tokaji notes on the aftertaste. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1997

Rating: 91 –93

Tasted three of four times with some bottle variation (including a muted bottle at a "Wine" magazine tasting rated only 16 out of 25). Tasted again in October 2003: the nose contains a boatload of honey, apricot and marmalade fruit on the nose. Typical of Vedrines style: rich and lavish. The palate is well-balanced, good acidity with good levels of botrytis. Unctuous and quite decadent though with a propensity to age. An irresistible wine.

robert_parker 1997

Rating: 89 –89

Tasted at the Doisy-Vedrines vertical at the chateau. A deep colour, much like the 1999. This nose is lacking a little definition, perhaps too oxidative with notes of walnut oil, linseed and orange peel. The palate is powerful although lacking the finesse that more recent vintages have shown. Burly honeyed, apricot tinged fruit with a touch of mandarin, lemongrass and apricot. Just a little too assertive on the finish, which does have pretentions towards Tokaji on the aftertaste. Drink now-2018. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1996

Rating: 89 –89

Tasted at the Doisy-Védrines vertical at the château, the 1996 Château Doisy-Védrines is very closed at first. Returning after 20 minutes, it becomes quite floral on the bouquet with ripe Satsumas, burnt honey and caramelized pear. There is satisfying rather than exemplary definition, not quite the focus of more recent vintages. It is very smooth and unctuous on the entry and perhaps lacks a little acidity. There is certainly a lot of botrytis, but it is missing precision on the apricot and orange liqueur-tinged finish. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1996

Rating: 92 –94

Tasted several times and improving every time this is a rather overlooked Doisy-Vedrines. A concentrated nose with scents of pear drops and white peaches. Intense palate with great definition and acidity with notes of lemon and tangerines. Not a huge amount of botrytis but a beautifully poised Barsac. Drinking now. Tasted August 1999.

robert_parker 1996

Rating: 89 –89

Tasted at the Doisy-Vedrines vertical at the chateau. This is very closed at first so returning after 20 minutes, quite floral on the bouquet with ripe Satsumas, burnt honey, caramelized pear. Moderate definition, not quite the focus of more recent vintages. Very smooth and unctuous on the entry, perhaps lacking a little acidity, certainly with a lot of botrytis although missing some precision on the apricot and orange liqueur tinged finish. Moderate length. Drink now-2018. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1995

Rating: 88 –88

Tasted at the Doisy-Védrines vertical at the château, the 1995 Château Doisy-Védrines has a moderate, clear gold colour. The nose is a little simplistic with barley sugar, clementine and tangerine, though it comes across as a little sulfury. The palate is, again, quite powerful and concentrated, although it lacks a little finesse and elegance. There are notes of orange, honey and quince (especially toward the insistent finish), although it does come across as being too eager to impress. This is a big mouthful of Barsac! Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1995

Rating: 88 –90

Moderate gold colour. Typical rich honeyed, beeswax nose with peach flavours on the palate. 1995's seem to have good botrytis levels. Rich orange peel on the finish. Not complex but still delicious. Tasted September 2001.

robert_parker 1995

Rating: 88 –88

Tasted at the Doisy-Vedrines vertical at the chateau. A moderate gold colour. Very clear. The nose is a little simplistic with barley sugar, a touch of Clementine and tangerine although it comes across as a little sulphury. The palate is again, quite powerful and concentrated although it lacks a little finesse and elegance. Orange-blossom, honey, quince especially towards the insistent finish, although you kinda wish it would just back off a little! A big mouthful of Barsac! Drink now-2015. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1990

Rating: 93 –93

Tasted at the Doisy-Védrines vertical at the château, the splendid 1990 Château Doisy-Védrines has a lucid gold colour. It has a lovely Barsac nose of orange cut marmalade, quince and honey, great definition, with touches of hazelnut and linseed coming through. The palate is powerful, a little low in acidity but very pure and with great definition and harmony. There are ripe oranges, honey, apricot with a touch of quince forming the long, persistent finish that maintains freshness right to the end. This is a great Doisy-Védrines. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1990

Rating: 89 –91

Deep golden colour. Honeyed nose with noticeable creamy new oak. The palate is well-balanced with rich, honeyed, sumptuous fruits with good length. Lots of botrytis and glycerin with a really fat, honeyed finish the lingers long after the wine is swallowed. The 1989 is perhaps more refined but this is still immensely pleasurable and perhaps more hedonistic. Tasted July 1999.

robert_parker 1990

Rating: 79 –83

A crisp, citrus-scented wine, the 1990 Doisy-Vedrines tastes watery and diluted. It lacks the richness one has come to expect from this generally well-run estate. If some more fruit emerges, it may become a stylish, but uninspiring example of a sweet wine from the Barsac/Sauternes region.

robert_parker 1990

Rating: 87 –87

Although somewhat monolithically-styled, there is no doubting the 1990's unctuously-textured, thick, sweet style. The color is light medium gold. The wine offers plenty of honeyed citrus fruit, in addition to smoke and vanillin. Medium to full-bodied, with good acidity, some evidence of botrytis, and a plump, low acid finish, this heavyweight, chunky wine should age nicely for 15-20 years. Anticipated maturity: Now-2015. Last tasted 3/97

robert_parker 1990

Rating: 84 –84

The very sweet 1990 is simple, dull, and rustic. It should be drunk over the next 10-15 years. My rating in this tasting mirrored earlier ratings from both barrel and bottle.

robert_parker 1990

Rating: 93 –93

Tasted at the Doisy-Vedrines vertical at the chateau. This has a lucid gold colour. It has a lovely Barsac nose of orange cut marmalade, quince and honey, great definition, with touches of hazelnut and linseed coming through. The palate is powerful, a little low in acidity but very pure and with great definition and harmony. Ripe oranges, honey, apricot with a touch of quince, with a long, persistent finish that maintains freshness right to the end. A great wine. Drink now-2020+ Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1989

Rating: 95 –95

Tasted at the Doisy-Védrines vertical at the château, the 1989 Château Doisy-Védrines sports a similar colour to the 1990 with big fat tears in the glass. The nose is more introverted than the 1990, perhaps a little tertiary with honey, marmalade, fig and barley sugar. The palate is medium-bodied, more viscous than the 1990, very rounded, smooth and seductive with almost lush honeyed fruit, marmalade and quince. There is a lot of botrytis underpinning the rich, sensuous finish. It represents a serious Barsac for long-term ageing.Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1989

Rating: 93 –95

Tasted countless times because it is one of Olivier Casteja favourite vintages. First in June 1999 when served alongside Yquem 1990, which it triumphed over. However a bottle tasted in April 2003 was beginning to show it's age. Then in October 2003: A deep amber colour similar in appearance to the Doisy-Vedrines 1988. A rich apricot nose is followed by a very rich palate with good levels of botrytis. It seems to be at a similar stage of evolution to the 1988: ripe orange peel and marmalade. Good acidity and very long. Absolutely divine. Finally in April 2004 in Tokyo. A fine gold/copper hue. A weighty nose of oranges/apricot and tangerines - very Barsac. The palate is unctuous with moderate complexity and fine acidity. Certainly a mouth-filling wine that now lacks the persistency on the finish that it exhibited a few years ago. Perhaps drying a little?

robert_parker 1989

Rating: 88 –88

Medium gold-colored, with botrytis, creme brulee, honeyed tropical fruits in the nose, this full-bodied, sweet wine possesses good acidity, layers of glycerin-imbued, plump, chewy, honeyed fruit, and plenty of spice and alcohol in the lusty finish. It is a luxuriously made, in-your-face style of sweet wine. Anticipated maturity: Now-2012. Last tasted 3/97

robert_parker 1989

Rating: 88 –88

The 1989 is clearly the richest of the 1988, 1989 and 1990 vintages. While it possesses more honeyed fruit and fuller body, it appears to lack botrytis. Nevertheless, it offers a rich, interesting mouthful of sweet Bordeaux. It should be drunk over the next 10-15 years. My rating in this tasting mirrored earlier ratings from both barrel and bottle.

robert_parker 1989

Rating: 95 –95

Tasted at the Doisy-Vedrines vertical at the chateau. A similar colour to the 1990 with big fat tears in the glass. The nose is more introverted than the 1990, perhaps a little tertiary with honey, marmalade, a touch of fig and barley sugar. The palate is medium-bodied, more viscous than the 1990, very rounded, smooth and seductive with almost lush honeyed fruit, marmalade and quince. A lot of botrytis with a rich, sensuous finish. A serious Barsac for long-term ageing. Excellent. Drink now-2025+ Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1988

Rating: 91 –91

Tasted at the Doisy-Védrines vertical at the château, the 1988 Château Doisy-Védrines has a very Barsac nose with notes of marmalade, barley sugar and a touch of quince, all with excellent definition, although it probably lacks the vigor of the 1989 or 1990. The palate is very smooth and harmonious on the entry, a little low in acidity, but remains cohesive to the finish with a certain degree of elegance to it with touches of dried apricot, fig and marmalade. It just lacks the complexity and precision of the 1989 but there is tangy, orange cut marmalade on the aftertaste. This is still a very fine 1988 Barsac. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1988

Rating: 88 –90

Tasted several times. A refulgent, golden/amber hue. A dense, vanillary nose with notes of quince and orange peel. Medium-bodied, balanced and expressive though lacking the weight and pedigree of either the 1989 or 1990. Turning a little drier, with more bitter orange peel notes in recent years, perhaps rustic compared to other vintages. Drinking now. Tasted March 2004.

robert_parker 1988

Rating: 86 –86

A youthful tasting (the youngest when compared to the bigger, thicker 1989 and 1990) wine, the 1988 is made in an elegant style, with smoky, creme brulee, and honeyed citrus and pineapple notes in the aromatics and flavors, medium to full body, moderate sweetness, zesty acidity, and a fine finish. This promising, youthful wine possesses 20 more years of longevity. Anticipated maturity: Now-2018. Last tasted 3/97

robert_parker 1988

Rating: 86 –86

The 1988 possesses better acidity and more focus than the 1989. It would make an excellent choice with foie gras or such rich fish dishes as lobster with melted butter. It should be drunk over the next 10-15 years. My rating in this tasting mirrored earlier ratings from both barrel and bottle.

robert_parker 1988

Rating: 91 –91

Tasted at the Doisy-Vedrines vertical at the chateau. This has a very Barsac nose with notes of marmalade, barley sugar and a touch of quince, all with excellent definition, although it probably lacks the vigour of the 1989 or 1990. The palate is very smooth and harmonious on the entry, a little low in acidity, but remains cohesive to the finish with a certain degree of elegance to it. Touch of dried apricot, fig and marmalade, although just lacking the complexity and precision of the 1989 on the finish. Tangy, orange cut marmalade on the aftertaste. Moderate length. Still a very fine 1988 Barsac. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1987

Rating: 85 –85

Tasted at the Doisy-Védrines vertical at the château, the 1987 Château Doisy-Védrines has a clear, deep golden color. It is difficult following the triumvirate 1988, 1989 and 1990 as it lacks fruit intensity, seems muffled with faint marmalade and tangerine notes. The palate is medium-bodied, lacking harmony, although there are attractive quince and marmalade notes toward the finish. It is a little short, but certainly not bad for the vintage. Again, the finish is quite elegant although there is a touch of dryness. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1987

Rating: 85 –85

Tasted at the Doisy-Vedrines vertical at the chateau. A clear, deep golden colour. A bit difficult following the 1988, 1989 and 1990 as it lacks fruit intensity, a little muffled with faint marmalade and tangerine notes. The palate is medium-bodied, lacking some harmony although there is some attractive quince and marmalade notes towards the finish. A little short, but certainly not bad for the vintage. Again, the finish is quite elegant although there is a touch of dryness. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1986

Rating: 87 –87

Tasted at the Doisy-Védrines vertical at the château, the 1986 Château Doisy-Védrines lacks some harmony on the nose, taking time to settle. Apricot, honey and a touch of marmalade, though it lacks the purity of later vintages and seems a bit alcoholic. The palate is slightly better with edgy marmalade and quince notes, although there is a touch of dryness toward the finish. This is probably just past its plateau. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1986

Rating: 90 –90

Doisy-Vedrines made a superb wine in 1986. It is powerful, complex, and nearly as mouth-filling as their great 1989. It does have crisper acidity, and for the moment, a more complex, floral, honeyed bouquet. There is no denying the unctuous, huge, tropical fruit flavors. Anticipated maturity: Now-2005. Last tasted, 11/90.

robert_parker 1986

Rating: 87 –87

Tasted at the Doisy-Vedrines vertical at the chateau. This is lacking some harmony on the nose, taking time to settle. Apricot, honey and a touch of marmalade, although lacking the purity of later vintages and a bit alcoholic. The palate is slightly better with edgy marmalade and quince notes, although there is a touch of dryness towards the finish. Probably just past its plateau. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1985

Rating: 73 –73

Tasted at the Doisy-Védrines vertical at the château, the 1985 Château Doisy-Védrines has a very simple nose of barley sugar and pear drops, although like the 1986 there is a little too much warm alcohol and a touch of volatility. This is a decidedly odd Doisy-Védrines! Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1985

Rating: 75 –75

This wine strikes me as surprisingly mediocre, even in a vintage where there was too little botrytis to give the wines that honeyed, unctuous quality. It is straightforward and crisp, and comes across as uncomplicated, short, and compact. Anticipated maturity: Now. Last tasted, 11/90.

robert_parker 1985

Rating: 73 –73

Tasted at the Doisy-Vedrines vertical at the chateau. A very simple nose of barley sugar and pear drops although like the 1986 there is a little too much warm alcohol and a touch of volatility. A decidedly odd Doisy-Vedrines! Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1983

Rating: 89 –89

Tasted at the Doisy-Védrines vertical at the château, the 1983 Château Doisy-Védrines has a clear golden colour. The nose is rather simple with barley sugar, a touch of mandarin and orange liqueur. It just lacks some definition. The palate is medium-bodied, a slight bitter edge on the entry spoiling what are some attractive honeyed, apricot-tinged fruit. It is a little lean toward the finish but I probably would opt for this over the 1986. Quite smooth and harmonious on the tangy orange and apricot-tinged finish. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1983

Rating: 87 –87

1983 has reached its apogee. It comes across on the palate as a plump, round, tasty wine with a great deal of fruit, sweetness, and surprising unctuousness. However, it lacks acidity for grip and focus. Nevertheless, there is a great deal to admire about this chunky, lush, very sweet Barsac. Anticipated maturity: Now. Last tasted, 11/90.

robert_parker 1983

Rating: 89 –89

Tasted at the Doisy-Vedrines vertical at the chateau. A clear golden colour. The nose is rather simple with barley sugar, a touch of mandarin and orange liqueur. It just lacks some definition. The palate is medium-bodied, a slight bitter edge on the entry spoiling what are some attractive honeyed, apricot tinged fruit. A little lean towards the finish but I probably would opt for this over the 1986. Quite smooth and harmonious on the tangy orange and apricot-tinged finish. Drink now-2014. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1981

Rating: 88 –88

Poured from magnum at the property, the 1981 Château Doisy-Védrines is rather muted at first, but unfurls to reveal notes of quince, barley sugar and citrus lemon. Not complex, but a bouquet you might describe as “correct” for a mature Barsac. The palate is fresh and simple, good acidity, lacks botrytized fruit as one might expect from this vintage, with orange peel, lemon, a touch of ginger and dried apricot. It has a foursquare finish and feels very linear, but it retains its freshness from start to finish. Tasted November 2008.

robert_parker 1981

Rating: 88 –88

Poured from magnum, this ’81 is rather muted at first, but unfurls to reveal notes of quince, barley sugar and citrus lemon. Not complex, but a bouquet you might describe as “correct” for a mature Barsac. The palate is fresh and simple, good acidity, lacks botrytized fruit as one might expect from this vintage, with orange peel, lemon, a touch of ginger and dried apricot. It has a ‘foursquare’ finish, very linear but it retains its freshness from start to finish. Drink now-2012. Tasted November 2008.

robert_parker 1980

Rating: 84 –84

A fat, spicy, apricot- and coconut-scented bouquet is quite captivating. On the palate the wine is ripe, very sweet, almost jammy and marmalade-like, with a good, sweet, alcoholic finish. It lacks a little finesse, but the 1980 Doisy-Vedrines exhibits plenty of fruit and a chewy texture. Anticipated maturity: Now. Last tasted, 2/85.

robert_parker 1978

Rating: 80 –80

Charming but considerably lighter in style than normal, the 1978 lacks botrytis, but has a fresh, clean, lemony, pineapple fruitiness and a decent finish. It may now be tiring. Anticipated maturity: Now. Last tasted, 2/82.

robert_parker 1976

Rating: 84 –84

In many respects a typically chunky, fat, corpulent Doisy-Vedrines, the 1976 reveals plenty of ripe, viscous, honeyed fruit, good botrytis, full body, and enough acidity to keep the wine from tasting cloyingly sweet or heavy. Anticipated maturity: Now. Last tasted, 9/82.

robert_parker 1975

Rating: 87 –87

Tasted at the Doisy-Védrines vertical at the château, the 1975 Château Doisy-Védrines has a typical bouquet of this vintage: barley sugar, mandarin and slight petrol aromas giving it a Beerenauslese sheen. The palate is medium-bodied, lacking a little acidity and vigor with an oxidative, although not unattractive, middle of marmalade, quince and a touch of walnut. Moderate length, the overall impression is a wine that is quite anachronistic in style, though there is attractive orange liqueur on the finish. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1975

Rating: 86 –86

A tight, reticent bouquet needs coaxing from the glass. In the mouth, there is no doubt this is an intense, full-bodied, ripe, very fruity Doisy-Vedrines. Unctuous, luscious flavors of apricots and melons are admirably balanced by spicy oak and good acidity. Anticipated maturity: Now-2003. Last tasted, 3/89.

robert_parker 1975

Rating: 87 –87

Tasted at the Doisy-Vedrines vertical at the chateau. The nose is typical of a ’75 Sauternes with barley sugar, mandarin and slight petrolly aromas giving it a Beerenauslese sheen. The palate is medium-bodied, lacking a little acidity and vigour with an oxidative, although not unattractive middle of marmalade, quince and a touch of walnut. Moderate length, quite anachronistic in style. Orange liqueur on the finish. Drink now. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1971

Rating: 88 –88

This has a more expressive nose than the Rayne-Vigneau ’71 served alongside with apricot, honey and marmalade. The palate I very svelte and harmonious with citrus-driven fruit, tangerine and freshly cut marmalade. But what it lacks is a fanning out of flavours on the finish, which is a little linear and rather abrupt. Perversely I have fonder memories of the 1970 Doisy-Vedrines, but this is still a very attractive wine that could last a few more years. Tasted February 2008.

robert_parker 1971

Rating: 88 –88

The 1971 Château Doisy-Védrines was poured blind against is Château Rayne-Vigneau 71 in Bordeaux. It clearly sports the more expressive set of aromatics, offering scents of apricot, honey and marmalade. The palate is svelte and harmonious with citrus-driven fruit, tangerine and freshly cut marmalade. But what it lacks is a fanning out of flavor on the finish, which is a little linear and rather abrupt. Perversely I have fonder memories of the 1970 Doisy-Vedrines, but this is still a very attractive wine that could last a few more years. Tasted February 2008.

robert_parker 1970

Rating: 90 –90

Tasted several times, the 1970 Château Doisy-Védrines has always been a light, pretty wine. Here served blind in Bordeaux, it has a pretty, perfumed nose of honey, quince and this time, a little acacia. The palate is well balanced and vibrant with notes of apricot, lemon curd and peach. It does not have great depth or length, but it is so charming, so pretty and after 38-years, so vivacious, that you cannot help but fall for its charms. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1970

Rating: 90 –92

Tasted three of four times, never disappointing. A deep amber colour. A muted nose with honey, marmalade and quince - so far, so predictable. But a stunning palate is to follow: vibrant, racy acidity, high botrytis. Complex lemon, apricot, marmalade palate. Good length. Very impressive, especially for this vintage. A wine that shines like a beacon and criminally under-priced. Tasted September 2002.

robert_parker 1970

Rating: 90 –90

I have always had a soft spot for this vintage of Doisy-Vedrines. Served over dinner chez Pierre-Antoine Casteja, it still has that pretty, perfumed nose of honey, quince and this time, a little acacia. The palate is well balanced and vibrant with notes of apricot, lemon curd and peach. It does not have great depth or length, but it is so charming, so pretty and after 38-years, so vivacious, that you cannot help but fall for its charms. Drink now-2012+. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1967

Rating: 88 –88

This rare wine was poured blind by Olivier Castèja while at the château. The 1967 Château Doisy-Védrines has a deep gold/auburn color. The nose is quintessential Barsac: slightly nutty with tangy Seville orange marmalade and quince (actually reminiscent of mature Tokaji.) That Hungarian theme carries across onto the palate, which has good acidity with tangy mandarin and quince towards the finish. Good length here. In some ways it reminds me of a more mature version of the ’89, but it is not a complex ’67 it must be said. Drink now. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1967

Rating: 88 –88

This rare wine was poured by Olivier Casteja whilst lunching at the Chateau. It has a deep gold/auburn colour. The nose is quintessential Barsac, slightly nutty with tangy Seville orange marmalade and quince (actually reminding me of a mature Tokaji.) That Hungarian theme carries across onto the palate, which has good acidity with tangy mandarin and quince towards the finish. Good length. In some ways it reminds me of a more mature version of the ’89. But not a complex ’67 it must be said. Drink now. Tasted September 2008.

robert_parker 1928

Rating: 98 –98

Ancient vintages of this Barsac estate are as rare as hens' teeth, therefore it was a privilege when proprietor Olivier Castèja opened one of his last remaining bottles of Château Doisy-Védrines 1928 and served it blind. I hazarded a guess around the 1940s - clearly aged, with rosehip and camomile aromas, but underlying these were echoes of a Barsac that must have had immense concentration in its youth. There was presence here, one only partially diminished by its 87 years of age. The palate was balanced and clearly still fresh, the acidity nigh perfect and blessed with figgy, red plum and honeyed flavors. Remarkably, this bottle improved over the 20-30 minutes, gaining in intensity rather than oxidizing. I will never drink it again, but this Doisy-Védrines testified to a Barsac estate that is among the best in Sauternes.

robert_parker 2022

Rating: 94 –94

A ripe, complex and elegant bouquet of apricots, spices, saffron and pineapple introduce the 2022 Doisy-Védrines, a medium to full-bodied, dense and enrobing Sauternes full of energy. With good depth at the core and a layered, deep mid-palate, it segues into a long, mineral and delicately apricot-driven finish. This blend of 90% Sémillon, 8% Sauvignon Blanc and 2% Muscadelle will offer a broad drinking window and is a stunning effort, as it often is at this address. There are 162 grams per liter of residual sugar. It was picked from 3 October to 28 October in three tries and matured in one-third new barrels.

robert_parker 2014

Rating: 94 –96

The Château Doisy-Védrines 2014 is a blend of 85% Sémillon and 15% Sauvignon Blanc, a modest 134 grams per liter residual sugar and a pH of 3.55 (a figure that might be a little lower than recent vintages.) It has a fragrant bouquet that is actually quite similar to Doisy-Daëne this year, a reticent at first but opens up with honey, orange zest and mineral aromas. The palate is fresh and vibrant on the entry with a fine line of acidity, much more race than recent vintage with citrus lemon, honey and orange peel on the long, persistent finish. Yes, there is a little more unctuousness on the finish compared to Doisy-Daëne but at the end of the day, they are both superb expressions of Barsac.

robert_parker 2015

Rating: 93 –95

The 2015 Doisy-Vedrines has quite an intense nose, perhaps less fat and honeyed than recent vintages, more finesse if not quite capturing the same level of details as the Doisy-Daëne this year. The palate is very promising with layers of honeyed fruit tinged with white chocolate and almond, a lovely swagger about this Doisy-Vedrines that reminds me of great vintages such as 1989. Always well priced, you won't harm your cellar with a case of Olivier Castèja's sumptuous Barsac.

robert_parker 2006

Rating: 93 –93

Tasted at the Sauternes 2006 ten-year on horizontal in Bordeaux. The 2006 Doisy-Vedrines has quite a potent, botrytis-rich bouquet with honey, quince and marmalade scents billowing from the glass. The palate is crisp and fresh with a keen line of acidity that cuts through the barley sugar, dried quince and spice notes towards the finish. This is a great Doisy-Vedrines that will age well over the next 20-30 years. Tasted April 2016.

robert_parker 1998

The pale to medium gold colored 1998 Doisy-Vedrines is a little tired, with baked pears and dried apple slices on the nose with some fresh hay notes in the background. There's plenty of sweetness and acidity in the mouth, but the fruit has faded.

robert_parker 2009

Rating: 93 –93

Pale gold colored, the 2009 Doisy-Vedrines is sporting a nose of stewed tea, fresh hay, tree bark and dried apricots with touches of candied walnuts and ginger ale. The fruit is maturing into a nutty/savory character in the mouth with a lively backbone, finishing spicy.

robert_parker 2016

Rating: 93 –93

The pale lemon colored 2016 Doisy-Vedrines is a little closed to begin, giving way to notes of lemonade, grapefruit, white peaches and yuzu with wafts of ginger, honeycomb and crushed rocks. The palate is wonderfully elegant and refreshing with delicate citrus and mineral layers and a lively citrus lift to the finish.

robert_parker 2018

Rating: 90 –92

Pale to medium lemon-gold in color, the 2018 Doisy-Vedrines gives up bold notes of warm pineapple, baked pears and spice cake with nuances of orange blossoms, toasted almonds and baking bread. The palate provides a great intensity of tropical and citrus flavors with a racy line of freshness and long, spicy finish.

robert_parker 2013

Rating: 91 –93

The sample of 2013 Doisy-Vedrines was showing a little reduction on the nose when I first tasted it. The palate is promising, however, perhaps more linear and less honeyed than recent vintages, but that is compensated by greater tension towards the middle and finish. You might describe this as a more streamlined Doisy-Vedrines, dare I say one that is more like Doisy-Daene in style, with wonderful mineralite on the finish.

robert_parker 1980

Rating: 84 –84

A fat, spicy, apricot- and coconut-scented bouquet is quite captivating. On the palate the wine is ripe, very sweet, almost jammy and marmalade-like, with a good, sweet, alcoholic finish. It lacks a little finesse, but the 1980 Doisy-Vedrines exhibits plenty of fruit and a chewy texture. Anticipated maturity: Now. Last tasted, 2/85.

robert_parker 1978

Rating: 80 –80

Charming but considerably lighter in style than normal, the 1978 lacks botrytis, but has a fresh, clean, lemony, pineapple fruitiness and a decent finish. It may now be tiring. Anticipated maturity: Now. Last tasted, 2/82.

robert_parker 1976

Rating: 84 –84

In many respects a typically chunky, fat, corpulent Doisy-Vedrines, the 1976 reveals plenty of ripe, viscous, honeyed fruit, good botrytis, full body, and enough acidity to keep the wine from tasting cloyingly sweet or heavy. Anticipated maturity: Now. Last tasted, 9/82.