Pale gold. Rich and headily floral on the nose – not the obvious leafiness of Sémillon. Much more aromatic than the first sample I tried here. Very neat and charming on the palate – unlike any other wine I can think of. Definitely an echo of the rich satin texture of the sweet wines produced at this address. But with a distinct tang at the end. I wonder what model was used to come up with this new wine? In any case, it would adorn any smart dinner table with a great story… And masses of impact for not much alcohol.
Vinous (91)
The 2019 Asphodele, aged for eight months in concrete tanks, has an expressive nose with freshly sliced pear, nettle and light waxy aromas. Good vigour and definition. The palate is taut and fresh on the entry. Fine weight, perhaps a little more concentrated than the 2020 with slightly longer length. Edgy, yet delicious. Tasted at the Climens vertical at the château in April 2022.
Robert Parker (92)
This is only the second vintage of this dry white wine made from the Chateau Climens's vineyard in Sauternes, in collaboration with Pascal Jolivet from Sancerre. It is 100% Sémillon, fermented and aged in stainless steel. The nose has a lovely, soft-spoken restraint, offering notes of lemon peel, fresh hay, Bosc pears and paraffin wax with touches of coriander seed, honeysuckle and toasted almonds. The medium-bodied palate has beautifully understated savory and mineral nuances accenting the citrus and spiced pears flavors with a lively line of freshness and a satiny texture, finishing long and perfumed. I'm seriously smitten by this uniquely fragrant, uncontrived style of dry white coming from Sauternes—bravo! It is delicious right now, but I'd like to see what this does with 5+ years of cellaring. As with Chateau Climens, this wine is certified both organic and biodynamic.
