A beautifully balanced and exceptionally priced Sauternes from Barsac, the 2020 Château Grillon offers luscious botrytized fruit, lifted acidity, and versatility that makes it just as perfect for special occasions as it is for everyday indulgence.
Taste
Rich and golden in the glass, this wine opens with classic notes of honeyed apricot, candied orange peel, and ripe peach, accented by hints of ginger, chamomile, and toasted almond. The palate is silky and opulent, yet balanced by a bright thread of acidity that keeps it fresh and lifted. The finish is long and elegant, with lingering flavors of marmalade, lemon curd, and baking spice.
About the Winery/Winemaker
Château Grillon is a 10-hectare estate located in the Barsac zone of the Sauternes appellation, known for producing age-worthy sweet wines with precision and grace. The vineyards are planted primarily to Sémillon, with smaller amounts of Muscadelle and Sauvignon Blanc. Grapes are hand-harvested in three to four separate passes (tries) to selectively pick berries affected by noble rot (Botrytis cinerea). Fermentation is carried out in a mix of cement and oak barrels, followed by aging in French oak with 25% new barrels annually.
Why We Love It
This is a true gem of value in Sauternes. With traditional craftsmanship and meticulous harvesting, Château Grillon consistently delivers quality far beyond its price point. It's an ideal wine to keep on hand for entertaining—whether with foie gras, cheese, dessert, or simply as a luxurious aperitif. Plus, once opened, it keeps beautifully in the fridge for several weeks.
Technical Wine Notes
Origin: Sauternes AOC, Bordeaux, France (Barsac area)
Varietals: Primarily Sémillon, with Muscadelle and Sauvignon Blanc
Harvest: 3–4 passes for botrytized fruit
Fermentation: Cement and oak barrels
Aging: French oak barrels, 25% new
Bottle Size: 375ml
Vintage: 2020
Alcohol: Approx. 13.5% ABV
Style: Sweet, botrytized dessert wine, rich yet balanced
Food Pairings
Foie gras, blue cheeses, triple creams, fruit tarts, roasted nuts, or simply on its own as a chilled aperitif
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