Chateau d'Arche 2019 Sauternes 2ème Cru Classé (375ml)

The Wine

"Sporting a bright, pale lemon color, the 2019 D'Arche comes galloping out of the glass with intense notes of fresh pineapple, dried mango and juicy apricots plus suggestions of chalk dust, lemon honey and musk perfume. The palate has a real skip in its step with vibrant, youthful tropical and citrus fruit flavors backed up by invigorating acidity, finishing with great length and a chalky edge." - Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The wine has a reputation for leving a lingering, 2-minute finish of honeyed apricots on a diner's tongue. Enjoy with foie gras, the cheese course, and of course, dried apricots. 

The Winery

We aren't sure why Chateau d'Arche isn't in the conversation more often here in the US fine wine market. Too small for any significant volume, perhaps? A wine press too focused on Suduiraut while leaving out consideration for anything else? 

Whatever the case, nobody can argue against Chateau d'Arche deserving way more of America's attention!

As the Vinous writer, Neal Martin, will tell you if he ever gets a chance, this property should have been listed as a first-growth during the 1855 classification. A political divide created by the French Revolution lowered its ranking as the classification was being formed. C'est la vie, as they say. 

The firm's misfortune is a boon for those seeking to pay less for a top-tier experience, rankings be damned!