Château Suduiraut has unveiled its highly anticipated 2023 vintage as part of the Bordeaux En Primeur campaign, priced at GBP 519 (EUR 606) per 12×75. With critical acclaim and a significant price reduction from the previous year, this release has garnered attention from wine enthusiasts and investors alike.
Pricing and Market Context
The 2023 vintage is available at EUR 43.20 per bottle ex-négociant, marking a 10.0% decrease from the 2022 release price of EUR 48. Internationally, it is offered at GBP 519 (EUR 606) per case, down 10.8% from the 2022 opening price of GBP 582 (EUR 679) per case. Despite this reduction, the 2023 vintage ranks as one of the most expensive of the decade, excluding the scarce 2021 vintage.
For buyers seeking value, exploring back vintages presents enticing options.
Critical Acclaim
Château Suduiraut 2023 has received effusive praise from leading critics:
- Antonio Galloni (Vinous): Awarded a potentially perfect score of 98-100 points, describing it as "a real stunner" and "a Sauternes that is more finesse than power."
- Neal Martin (Vinous): Scored it 96-98 points, lauding its supreme giftedness.
- James Lawther MW (Jancis Robinson): Rated the wine 18/20 points, noting its appetizing profile and great potential.
- James Suckling: Gave it 97-98 points, describing it as "very spicy and long, almost oily."
Pricing Analysis
Market prices of Suduiraut are closely correlated with scores from Antonio Galloni, according to the Liv-ex Fair Value methodology. Despite falling below the Fair Value regression line, the 2023 release is bolstered by its impressive critical response. However, buyers have attractive alternatives in back vintages.
The 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019 vintages, all priced below the trend line, represent Fair Value. Among these, the 2019 vintage stands out, available at a 30.6% discount to the 2023 release and boasting a 97-point score from Neal Martin, his joint-highest of the past decade.
Conclusion
Château Suduiraut 2023 captivates with its exceptional quality and reduced price compared to the previous year. While it remains one of the pricier vintages of the decade, the critical acclaim it has garnered makes it a compelling option for collectors and enthusiasts. However, for buyers prioritizing value, exploring back vintages, particularly the highly rated 2016 and 2019 vintages, offers an opportunity to acquire exceptional Sauternes at a more accessible price point.