Rabaud-Promis 2003 (750ML)

92 WS / 91 RP / 91 WA / 91 VM

Very concentrated, with a dark gold color and dried pineapple, mango, honey, caramel and butterscotch. Full-bodied, with a long finish. Very, very thick and sweet. A bit monolithic on the palate. Needs time. Best after 2009. 5,000 cases made. - James Suckling, Wine Spectator

It is against my better judgment to taste the sweet wines of Barsac and Sauternes at such an early age, as I find they typically require at least 12 months to reveal the definition/delineation so essential in these creamy, creme brulee, and honeysuckle-flavored offerings. Nevertheless, because this vintage is so highly regarded, I tasted through most of the top estates. The 2003s appear to be somewhat in the style of the 1990s, with high levels of residual sugar (higher than 2001 for the most part) as well as botrytis, low acidity, and fat, full-bodied personalities. This region¡on's harvest began extremely early (early September), and was completely finished within three weeks. It does not appear that the nobleness and racy richness of the 2001 vintage will be found in the 2003s, but readers who like the big, flamboyant, over the top style of the 1990s will enjoy the 2003s even more than I did. - Robert Parker

Ex-chateau bottle tasted blind in Sauternes. This bottle of Rabaud Promis is better than the one I encountered last year during the vertical at the property. Here, it has an attractive, Aszu-like bouquet with touches of fresh apricot, almond and hints of marmalade that unfold in the glass. Here, there is better delineation than previous bottles. The palate is medium-bodied with fresh quince on the entry. This demonstrates much better balance and focus than its peers with a delightful citrus freshness on the marmalade-tinged finish. Tasted April 2013. - Neal Martin, Wine Advocate

Yellow-gold. Exotic orange marmalade and marzipan aromas suggest a strong botrytis element; complicating notes of sauteed pineapple, baking spices and honeycomb. Then very sweet, pure and spicy on the palate. Not yet especially complex but I like its freshness and structure. Finishes with sneaky persistence. - Stephen Tanzer, Vinous Media