Clos Haut-Peyraguey
クロ・オー・ペラゲ
Sauternes 1st Growth: racy acidity balances opulent botrytis sweetness
Clos Haut-Peyraguey is a Premier Grand Cru Classé estate in Sauternes, located at the highest point of the Bommes plateau. One of the smallest first growths in the 1855 classification, its 12 hectares of vineyards (8 in a single block) are planted to approximately 95% Sémillon and 5% Sauvignon Blanc on complex gravelly-sandy soils. The estate traces its origins to 1618 and was separated from what is now Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey during the division of the Duchatel family estate in 1879. Since 2012 it has been owned by négociant Bernard Magrez, who has pursued sustainable viticulture and selective, pass-by-pass hand harvesting of botrytis-affected grapes. The resulting wines are celebrated for their racy acidity that keeps the sweetness fresh and never cloying, with flavors of quince, candied citrus, apricot, marzipan, and exotic spice.
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Who Is This For?
Wine lovers who want to explore the pinnacle of Bordeaux sweet wines — from collectors seeking age-worthy classics to those enjoying a luxurious pairing with foie gras, blue cheese, or fruit-based desserts. Also perfect for adventurous drinkers curious about noble rot and the magic of botrytized wines.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes Clos Haut-Peyraguey different from other Sauternes first growths?
- It is the smallest Premier Grand Cru Classé in Sauternes and sits at the highest elevation in Bommes, giving it outstanding drainage and terroir. Its 95% Sémillon plantings on gravelly-sandy soils produce wines with particularly racy, fresh acidity that sets them apart from richer, heavier styles.
- What grape varieties are used?
- Approximately 95% Sémillon and 5% Sauvignon Blanc. Sémillon provides lush texture and is the ideal host for noble rot, while Sauvignon Blanc contributes vivid acidity and aromatic lift.
- What are the best food pairings?
- Classic pairings include foie gras, Roquefort or Gorgonzola, fruit tarts, almond tart, and crème brûlée. The wine also works beautifully with roasted poultry, veal with cream sauce, or simply enjoyed on its own as a meditative dessert wine.
- How long does Clos Haut-Peyraguey age?
- The wine reaches full maturity between 12 and 30 years from vintage, though it is delicious upon release. The best vintages can age for 40+ years. Serve slightly chilled at around 10–14°C to highlight its freshness.
- Is the estate organic?
- Bernard Magrez practices sustainable integrated viticulture. The 2022 vintage has been marketed as organic, reflecting the estate's movement toward certified environmentally friendly farming.