Tasted blind at the Sauternes 2011 horizontal tasting. The Chateau Filhot is a commendable effort from a property that frustratingly tends to underperform. There is a strong petrol aroma on the nose of this Sauternes, detracting from its typicité even though there is fine delineation. The palate is crisp and fresh with an energetic entry, a keen line of acidity and a very pure, almost Auslese-like finish that has a long spicy finish that is just missing a little harmony and purity, and dried out slightly with time in the glass.

Although recent vintages of Filhot have been disappointing, I am more optimistic about the 2011. There is an attractive nutty note on the bouquet that is crisp and defined. The palate is nicely balanced with fresh, honeyed fruit while the viscous finish lacquers the mouth with the chutzpah that has been absent of late. I hope that this Sauternes remains on course throughout its barrel maturation because Filhot needs to be up there with the greats. Drink 2014-2020.