2019 Chateau d'Arche, Sauternes, France - 375ml

ABOUT THIS WINE

The 2019 growing season was warm and relatively dry, followed by ideal autumn conditions that allowed Botrytis cinerea (noble rot) to develop gradually and evenly. Multiple selective harvests ensured only perfectly botrytized berries were picked, resulting in excellent concentration while preserving bright acidity. The vintage is widely regarded as one of the strongest recent years for Sauternes. Fermentation takes place in French oak barrels, followed by barrel aging that integrates the wine's sweetness with subtle spice and texture while maintaining freshness. Expect it to evolve beautifully over the next 15–25 years.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

Château d'Arche is one of the historic estates of Sauternes, producing elegant, age-worthy sweet wines for more than three centuries. Located in the heart of the village of Sauternes in Bordeaux, the estate was classified as a Second Growth (Deuxième Cru Classé) in the famous 1855 Bordeaux Classification—a distinction it still holds today. 

Château d'Arche sits on gravelly soils overlooking the village of Sauternes, one of the appellation's finest sites. Like all great Sauternes estates, it benefits from the unique microclimate created by the confluence of the Ciron and Garonne rivers. Cool morning mists encourage the development of Botrytis cinerea (noble rot), while warm, dry afternoons concentrate the grapes, producing wines of remarkable richness balanced by vibrant acidity.

Production at Château d'Arche is intentionally limited, with yields often averaging around 2,000 bottles per hectare, which is well below the already limits permitted in Sauternes. Grapes are harvested by hand over multiple passes through the vineyard (tries), with pickers selecting only perfectly botrytized berries.

The estate combines traditional methods with modern technology. A new eco-conscious winery, inaugurated in 2019, allows for even more precise vinification while minimizing environmental impact. Fermentation and aging take place primarily in French oak barrels, resulting in wines with depth, texture, and exceptional aging potential.