The 2009 Chateau d’Arche has a perfumed, delicate bouquet that might not offer the intensity some hedonists might seek, but it is very nuanced and complex with scents of yellow flowers, dried honey and candle wax. The palate is medium-bodied with superb acidity combining with the botrytis rich fruit. This is a class act: surfeit with tension and breeding, while the finish offers delicious notes of Manuka honey and spices. This is wonderful. Drink now-2040+

Pale, pure, delicate lanolin Semillon aromas, very ripe botrytis evident, long, but not as complex and refined as some neighbours. One of the best, ever, however. (16.5 points)

91-93 Barrel sample. Strong botrytis, very rich, totally honeyed. This is a powerful wine, very straight in its style, packed with the sweetest apricot jam.——R.V.(8/9/2010)—— 92