Chateau Doisy Daene, 1981 Sweet Wine
Deuxieme Cru Classe- Barsac
Bottle size: 75cl
ABV: 14%
Price:
£69.95
Description
A Vintage of Distinction
The 1981 Château Doisy-Daëne emerges from a challenging year marked by spring frost, resulting in a smaller but intensely concentrated harvest. Despite modest yields, this Barsac estate crafted a wine that is compact and refined, offering clarity and elegance over sheer power. Now over four decades old, it wears a luminous amber-gold robe, hinting at the subtle complexity within.
Aroma and Flavor Harmony
On the nose, expect a captivating blend of dried apricot, honey, citrus peel, and delicate saffron aromas, layered beautifully with notes of beeswax and toffee. These aromatic elements echo on the palate—apricots, caramel, and toasted nuts are lifted by a fresh thread of acidity, creating balance and charm that is unusual for its age.
Lush Yet Structured Palate
This vintage shows full-bodied richness without heaviness—the sweetness is voluptuous but tempered by a crisp, lively acidity that keeps each sip refreshing. It glides with sumptuous stone-fruit flavors, gentle spice, and a lingering finish, showcasing the estate’s ability to produce graceful, age-worthy Barsac.
Serving & Pairing Recommendations
Serve the 1981 Doisy-Daëne lightly chilled, around 12–14 °C, and allow a brief decant of about 30 minutes to coax open its mature layers. It pairs exquisitely with foie gras, aged blue cheeses such as Roquefort, or nut-forward desserts like walnut tart. For an adventurous twist, try spicy Asian dishes or glazed poultry—its sweetness and acidity will harmonize beautifully.
A Collector’s Delight
Owning a bottle of 1981 Château Doisy-Daëne is an invitation to witness Barsac’s elegance in full maturity. From its sophisticated aroma to its enduring freshness, this wine represents a rare, exquisite chapter in Sauternes history. With limited availability and a beautifully evolved profile, it’s a treasure for collectors seeking a refined sweet wine that still expresses youthful vibrancy.
Château Doisy-Daëne stands as an esteemed wine estate nestled in the Barsac appellation of Bordeaux, France, renowned for crafting exquisite sweet wines. With a history tracing back to the 19th century, this estate, classified as a Second Growth (Deuxième Cru) in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, boasts a prime location and a terroir characterized by clay and limestone soils conducive to the development of noble rot. The vineyard spans approximately 18 hectares, predominantly planted with Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle. Guided by generations of expertise and a commitment to tradition, Château Doisy-Daëne meticulously hand-harvests botrytized grapes to create its signature elixirs. These wines are celebrated for their opulent sweetness, balanced by vibrant acidity, and complex layers of flavor, including honey, apricot, and citrus. Château Doisy-Daëne exemplifies the pinnacle of Barsac's winemaking heritage, consistently producing wines of exceptional quality and distinction.
Condition
Good level and label