The Chateau d’Arche has a seductive bouquet that opens teasingly with each swirl of the glass, with pure aromas of honey, quince and a tang of marmalade. The palate has a vibrant, racy opening with superb acidity that has more energy than it knows what to do with! It is threaded through with pure citrus fruits complemented by apricot and white peach that leads to a defined the crisp, focused, tensile finish. This is an impressive Chateau d’Arche. Drink 2015-2030.

Pale but with roasted undertones on the nose, less sugar than some but with the right balance of alcohol and sugar, good length, well made, one of the best ever and certainly good value for this sort of quality.

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+