2015 Valandraud Blanc
Buying options
Tasting Notes
This is firm and tight with a phenolic tension and brightness. Full-bodied and beautiful. Bright and lively. Yes. Apr 2016, www.JamesSuckling.com
Critic Scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Tim Atkin MW
More reviews and scores
There’s slightly less Sauvignon Gris in this wine than normal, but it’s still a highly unusual wine from the Thunevins. Smoky, leesy and rich, with well-judged new oak, some gunflint and plenty of concentration. Easier to taste and drink than the Valandraud red. Apr 2016, www.timatkin.com, Drink: 2017-2021
40% each Sauvignon Blanc and Sauvignon Gris plus 20% Semillon. Now one of the top dry whites in Bordeaux. Serious and refined on the nose with citrus and exotic fruit notes. Beautifully constructed palate with drive and persistence as well as mid-palate depth. Harmonious and can age. Apr 2016, James Lawther MW, www.Decanter.com, Drink: 2018-2025
The 2015 Valandraud Blanc is laced with hints of apricot pit, orchard fruit, mint, lemon confit, chamomile and sweet spices. Fermentation in barrel and lees stirring during élevage give the wine its signature textural richness and body. Unctuous and inviting, the Valandraud Blanc hits all the right notes. This is very nicely done. Apr 2016, www.Vinous.com
About the producer
One of the first garage wines, Ch. Valandraud was created by Jean-Luc Thunevin – Saint-Emilion’s “bad boy”. Today the style of the wine is much more restrained, and officially classified as a Premier Grand Cru Classé B estate.