CHÂTEAU DUHART-MILON
LE BLANC DE DUHART-MILON
BORDEAUX, FRANCE 2023
Why Buy: Can we still call Duhart-Milon Blanc one of the best-kept secrets in the wine world? With the way top White Bordeaux has been selling, and the way this wine sold out last year, it may not be for long. This sister property of Château Lafite Rothschild (and its legendary gravel, limestone and clay terroir) shares the same winemaking team as its legendary counterpart. And this limited-production bottling, only the fourth vintage since its inception, is about as distinguished and majestic as you could hope for, with that incredible pedigree behind it – but it's also a white wine of sneaky intensity and power.
Our Tasting Notes: We mentioned intensity, and that quality can be felt from the very first nosing: these are powerful aromatics, and you'll luxuriate in the upfront notes of grapefruit, acacia flower, ,and gunflint; trailing them is a slightly woody character that adds complexity and intrigue. On the palate, you're in the presence of an undeniably lively wine, vital and alive and assertive, but make no mistake: there is great structure here, too. And texturally, it's a wonder as well, with a smoothness that nearly approaches creaminess. We love the finish, which delivers gentle floral notes and a not-quite-faint hint of fresh peaches.
The Winemaking: The grapes, a blend of Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc, are picked in small crates and meticulously sorted, then cold-pressed and vinified in French oak barrels that are made in Pauillac. The wines are matured in these same barrels, on the lees, for about 8 months.
The Story: Duhart-Milon has lived a Zelig-like life of many lives. It was initially the "second wine" of Lafite Rothschild, then, in the 19th century, groomed to be a cru vineyard. The period between the two world wars brought hardship, with devastating frosts, and in the years after World War II the property saw five different owners. Stability came when Baron Eric de Rothschild purchased the estate in 1962 and set about redeeming its reputation. In this century, its wines have been critical darlings, and it's little wonder why, given their classical proportions, their emphasis on structure, and the freshness and vitality that nearly leap out of the glass.
Fun Fact: The Duhart of Duhart-Milon is Sir Duhart, who – legend has it – was a pirate and gunrunner for King Louis XV. And who, after retiring, settled down in Pauillac.
Our Guarantee: We always buy and source direct, so rest assured: your wine will arrive in your hands with pristine provenance. Secure your order today!
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Summer 2025. All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. Offer not valid in KS, MI, NE, NY, OK & TN. This offer is valid for TWO WEEKS, or until sold out, and will expire on Monday, March 24th, 2025.