A touch of pineapple, with floral and lemon notes and the soft sweetness of honey – yes, I was looking forward to trying the 2016 Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey, which scored 98 points from renowned wine critics James Suckling and Heiner Lobenberg. So I made my way to Sauternes, which is the region in Bordeaux known for its sweet wines. What initially started as a wine trip, became a multi-layered package of indulgence. It’s not only the special tasting experience of this Premier Cru Classé that awaited me here, but also the flair of the historic, sensitively revitalised château and the outstanding creations of chef Jérôme Schilling in the Lalique restaurant. Savoir vivre in a new dimension.
Jérôme Schilling He is young, creative and highly talented – at 33, Jérôme Schilling, from Alsace, is part of the most exclusive circle of top-tier chefs. Recently, the acclaimed star chef was awarded the coveted title of ‘Grand Chef de demain’ by the French restaurant guide Gault-Millau. His menus and dishes in the Lalique restaurant are just as innovative, which is where he creates culinary delights with sophistication, passion and a clear affinity to the region. I thoroughly enjoyed his culinary art, with every course being an absolute treat and the menu a polished overall composition. I’m sure it won’t be long before the second Michelin star follows...
Extensive vineyards make up Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey, whose history dates back to the 13th century. The first vines were planted here 400 years ago, says Silvio Denz. The president and CEO of the world-famous crystal maker, Lalique, took over the majestic property and had it sensitively transformed into a unique luxury hotel where four worlds meet: wine, crystal art, gastronomy and hospitality all come together here in a melting pot of sophistication, which has been experienced by guests since being opened in the summer of 2018. The historical rooms surprise with contrasting modernity and carefully chosen contemporary design. Fine Lalique items complement the interior everywhere you go – lights, furniture, fittings, accessories. The veranda, which is part of the Lalique restaurant, is just as inspiring as the 13 guest rooms and suites, with floor-to-celling glass. The magnificent view of the vineyards is the perfect setting to enjoy one of the 2,500 wines that the house wine cellar has to offer. The Premier Cru Classés are of course the focal point here in Bommes. With their golden colour, special texture and complex aromas, the renowned Sauternes wines occupy a special place in their homeland. My first taste really had the wow factor. The 2016 vintage, which is considered to be almost perfect, immediately shows its extraordinary qualities – the fruity sweetness from Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc grapes combines with a refreshing sourness to create a beautiful balance. Soft and almost creamy on the throat with every sip, leaving behind a bouquet of honey, fruit and flowers. A fine sweet wine that can also be used in different ways: it’s the perfect refreshment as a cocktail with orange zest and it’s unique as a finish to desserts like ice cream.
Sauternes The Sauternes region in south Bordeaux is dedicated entirely to viticulture. The fields cover some 1,700 hectares, where the precious vines are cultivated for renowned and sought-after fine sweet white wines. The two rivers Ciron and Garonne become important players here, as they provide the mist needed for the grapes’ noble rot. You can admire and enjoy the exquisite Premier Cru Classés at the Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey winery – in the crystal Lalique barrel, in the wine cellar or at the Lalique restaurant. The bottles bear a seal of origin with the engraving of the ‘Femmes et Raisins’ Lalique motif.
