Chateau de Fargues | Sauternes 1994

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Château de Fargues, a historic estate dating back to the 15th century, is a prestigious producer of Sauternes, the world-famous sweet wine from Bordeaux. Owned by the Lur Saluces family—who also managed Château d’Yquem for over 200 years—Château de Fargues is known for crafting exceptional, long-lived Sauternes that rival the finest in the appellation. The 1994 vintage exemplifies the estate’s commitment to producing rich, complex, and age-worthy sweet wines.

Winemaker & Philosophy: The Lur Saluces family follows traditional winemaking techniques, allowing the natural conditions of the vineyard to dictate the harvest, which is conducted in multiple passes to select grapes affected by noble rot (Botrytis cinerea). This selective harvest, combined with patient barrel aging, results in a wine of extraordinary depth and complexity. The estate practices low-intervention winemaking, ensuring that the wine reflects the true character of the terroir and vintage.

Grape Variety & Terroir: Château de Fargues Sauternes is primarily made from Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc, with the Sémillon contributing richness and texture, while the Sauvignon Blanc adds brightness and acidity. The vineyard's gravelly and clay soils, along with the unique microclimate of Sauternes, promote the development of noble rot, concentrating the sugars and flavors in the grapes. The 1994 vintage experienced favorable conditions for botrytis, resulting in a beautifully balanced and complex wine.

Flavor Profile: The 1994 Château de Fargues Sauternes displays a golden amber hue, indicative of its age and concentration. On the nose, expect aromas of dried apricots, honey, and candied citrus peel, with layers of vanilla, toasted nuts, and saffron. The palate is rich and viscous, with flavors of ripe peach, marmalade, crème brûlée, and a touch of spice. Despite its sweetness, the wine maintains a vibrant acidity that provides balance and a long, lingering finish with notes of caramel and butterscotch.

Pairings: This vintage pairs wonderfully with rich and savory dishes such as foie gras, blue cheese, or pâté, as well as sweeter desserts like crème brûlée, tarte tatin, or poached pears. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a luxurious after-dinner wine. Its complexity makes it versatile, able to complement both sweet and savory flavors.

Key Details:

• Grape Variety: Predominantly Sémillon, with some Sauvignon Blanc
• Region: Sauternes, Bordeaux, France
• Farming Practices: Traditional, selective harvest for noble rot
• Body: Full-bodied, rich, and viscous
• Aging: Aged in French oak barrels for up to 3 years
• Alcohol Content: 13.5% ABV
• Aging Potential: 30+ years, with the 1994 vintage showing beautifully now and continuing to develop further complexity with time

Château de Fargues Sauternes 1994 is a stunning example of a mature, botrytized wine that delivers layers of complexity, opulent sweetness, and vibrant acidity, making it an exceptional choice for special occasions or long-term cellaring.