One of the top sweet wines in this report is the 2016 Château Coutet, which has the vintage's plush, opulent style as well as thrilling purity and good acids. Pineapple, white flowers, sugared peach, and honeyed notes all emerge from this full-bodied, layered, balanced Barsac that's already impossible to resist yet will evolve gracefully 2+ decades.

95-97. Barrel Sample. This wine is dense, mingling spicy nutmeg along with superb ripe honey and marmalade flavors. With its balanced acidity and opulence, it is going to be a great wine.

Unctuous in feel, with marzipan, candied orange peel and praline notes leading the way for a juicy display of mango, peach and papaya flavors. The rich finish has a nice toasty hint. Best from 2023 through 2038. 5,333 cases made.

The 2016 Coutet has a high-toned bouquet of honey, clementine and light waxy aromas that overall is missing some complexity. The palate is well balanced with a viscous opening and notes of marmalade, quince and ginger. This is quite linear in style and does not really fan out on the finish, but I appreciate the harmony and length. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.