2001 Chateau Coutet Barsac Premier Cru 1x750ml

Robert Parker 93

I tasted two bottles of the Coutet 2001. The first had a distinct, rather pungent aniseed element on the nose and a slight bitterness on the palate. Calling for a second example, this is much more representative. Here is a typical Coutet nose that is just beginning to find its groove: barley sugar and quince scents typifying Barsac, augmented by Seville orange and lime. The palate is viscous and extremely well focused with fine mineralité and tension. It feels quite youthful and linear vis-à-vis its peers and concludes with a tangy, marmalade-lavished finish. This is ageing nicely though at the same time, I would suggest that the Baly family have surpassed this with subsequent vintages. [Neal Martin, 10/01/2014]

Anticipated maturity: 2014-2035

Vinous 93+

Subdued but pure aromas of mirabelle, peach, pear and pineapple; hints at a roasted botrytis ripeness. Then fat and rich in the mouth, with a captivating flavor of roasted peach. Impressively broad and oily but not yet filled in. Very suave, somewhat youthfully understated Barsac, and not at all overly honeyed today or dominated by its oak component. Built to age for a long time. [Stephen Tanzer, 01/07/2004]