Among the most seductive expressions of Sauternes, Esquisse de Nairac 2020 reveals the graceful profile of the second wine of Château Nairac, a Second Classified Growth of the 1855 classification. This contemporary cuvée, conceived as an entry point to the world of the grand vin, favours momentum, brightness and a sensitive reading of the terroir. The estate’s 17 hectares lie on limestone, gravel and marl soils that bring this distinctive signature, a mineral energy framing the wine’s sweetness. Here is the alchemy of noble rot, the botrytisation that concentrates aromas and textures, which Nairac interprets in a style that is both generous and airy. The Esquisse 2020 charms both enthusiasts and the curious, offering a clear, precise tasting and, in its way, recalling the beauty of a workshop light caught in the moment.

Blend and winemaking

Produced mainly from Sémillon (about 90%), completed by Sauvignon and Muscadelle, Esquisse de Nairac 2020 showcases the natural balance of the Bordeaux trio on the soils of Barsac. The grapes, harvested by hand in successive selective picks, are gathered as the noble rot develops, keeping only perfectly ripe berries. This meticulous sorting, a delicate gesture repeated as often as necessary, places the cuvée firmly within an artisanal approach where time and observation guide every decision. Pressing is gentle to preserve aromatic sap. Winemaking is carried out with the house’s precision, seeking fruit purity and clarity of style, while the ageing supports the material without weight, preserving the radiant fluidity that defines the Esquisse.

Tasting notes

• Colour: Brilliant gold with luminous highlights, clear and shimmering. The wine clings subtly to the glass like a transparent wash of watercolour. This brilliance announces a generous yet precise sweet wine, with a carefully balanced profile where the chalky freshness of Barsac already converses with the sunlit richness of botrytis.
• Nose: An intense first impression of candied fruits and ripe citrus, followed by acacia honey, white flower and a touch of candied orange zest. Evocations of gentle spices, quince paste and verbena structure the bouquet. The whole breathes and unfolds, lifted by a hint of damp stone and linden that elegantly sign the Barsac identity.
• Palate: A gentle entry, silky texture and controlled density. Sweetness envelops without weighing down, immediately rebalanced by a lively acidity and a mineral thread that sculpts the wine’s profile. The mid-palate combines dried apricot, roasted pear, candied pineapple and a touch of subtle warm spices. The finish, long and clean, leaves an impression of clarity, like a streak of light on a golden background.

Serving temperature & tips

Serve Esquisse de Nairac 2020 chilled, around 8 to 10 °C, in slender white wine glasses that enhance the aromas and allow the texture to unfold harmoniously. Opening the bottle a few minutes before service lets the candied citrus and honey notes reveal themselves more softly. Store undisturbed, protected from light and temperature fluctuations. The cuvée can be enjoyed in its youth for its fruity spontaneity and will gain complexity over the years, gradually revealing waxy, spicy and dried fruit nuances.

Food pairings

• Aperitifs: lightly cooked foie gras, warm brioche, citrus chutney, or delicate poultry rillettes for a voluptuous start.
• Starters: scallop carpaccio with citrus, just-seared langoustines, vanilla-glazed root vegetables.
• Main courses: free-range poultry glazed with honey, gently spiced Asian cuisine, tagine with apricots and toasted almonds.
• Cheeses: blue-veined cheeses, Roquefort, matured Comté served with dried fruits and a touch of wildflower honey.
• Desserts: thin apricot tart, roasted pineapple with warm spices, vanilla and candied citrus entremets.

Occasions

Esquisse de Nairac 2020 gracefully accompanies:

• A refined aperitif celebrating conviviality and the gentle pace of time.
• A gourmet dinner highlighting the subtle dialogue between sweetness and freshness.
• A connoisseur’s gift that reveals the art of Barsac sweet wines with modernity.

Specifications

• Name : Esquisse de Nairac 2020, Château Nairac
• Appellation : Sauternes AOC, Barsac area
• Type : Sweet wine
• Vintage : 2020
• Grape varieties : Sémillon, Sauvignon, Muscadelle
• Terroir : limestone, gravel and marl soils of Barsac
• Harvest : hand-harvested in successive selective picks
• Ageing : precise cellaring that preserves the fruit’s brightness
• Volume : 75 cl
• Serving temperature : 8 to 10 °C