2015 Cuvée Marie-Jeanne - Château le Payral

The 2015 Cuvée Marie-Jeanne represents the pinnacle of sweet wine production from Château Le Payral, a family estate located in Saussignac, in the Bergerac region. Crafted by Isabelle and Thierry Daulhiac according to organic and later biodynamic farming principles, this cuvée pays tribute to "Granny Marie-Jeanne," the winemaker's maternal grandmother, whose sweetness and elegance it shares.

A blend of Sémillon, Muscadelle, and Sauvignon, harvested at over-ripeness from sandy-clay-limestone soils, this cuvée benefits from fermentation in oak barrels using indigenous yeasts, followed by 12 to 18 months of aging in French barrels. This meticulous work grants it remarkable aromatic richness and excellent aging potential.

The nose is intense and complex, mingling vine peach, candied apricot, citrus marmalade, acacia honey, and exotic fruits. With aeration, delicate notes of vanilla, dried fruits, and sweet spices from the oak aging emerge.

The palate impresses with its breadth and concentration. The natural richness of the sugars is perfectly balanced by a remarkable freshness that brings energy and length. Flavors of candied fruit, ripe citrus, and honey linger in a persistent, elegant, and highly pure finish. This harmony between power and finesse earned it a Coup de Cœur (Top Pick) and the distinction of Exceptional Wine (3 stars) in the Guide Hachette des Vins.

A true meditation wine, this cuvée can also brilliantly accompany foie gras, blue cheese, sweet-and-savory dishes, or dark chocolate desserts.