My New Favorite Dessert Wine

In the world of dessert wine there are two categories: Château d’Yquem and wines that are not Château d’Yquem.

Last month, at Wine Spectator’s 43rd New York Wine Experience, I had the opportunity to taste the 2016 Château d’Yquem Sauternes (currently $499.99 on wine.com) alongside the 2013 Château Suduiraut Sauternes (currently $67 on Millesima Fine Wine), both awarded 94 points.

I think I have a new favorite dessert wine.

The Suduiraut was tropical and light, bursting with beautiful pineapple. It felt modern and fresh. Now, make no mistake, the d’Yquem was extraordinarily elegant, with a gorgeous, long finish, but it felt a little heavy. If d’Yquem is your parents’ dessert wine, Suduiraut is perfect for the next generation of wine lovers.
Not to mention, it’s more than $400 cheaper.

Will I be breaking up with Château d’Yquem?
Absolutely not.

Has d’Yquem lost its magic touch?
Don’t think so.

Is there room for another Sauternes atop your dessert wine list?
Yes, and be sure it’s Château Suduiraut.

Chin!

ps: the 2021 Suduiraut gets a perfect 100 point rating from James Suckling and is currently $104.99 on wine.com.