De Malle 2005

Tasted blind at the 10-Year On Tasting in Sauternes. The 2005 Château de Malle has a pleasing, harmonious, botrytis-rich bouquet with fine delineation: honeysuckle, minerals and orange-blossom gently floating from the glass. The palate is very well balanced with tensile citrus fruit that marries beautifully with the clear honey, mandarin and citrus notes. There is a compelling build to this wine in the mouth. A top de Malle to savor now and over the next 15-20 years.

Full yellow color. Pure but reticent nose suggests peach. Rich, concentrated and plump; not yet showing its complexity but there's a succulence here that's captivating. Finishes quite persistent, with a hint of cherry-almond. Very promising.

Lots of spices, lemon rind and honey follow through to a thick, full-bodied palate. Long finish. Dense and sweet.