Château La Tour Blanche - Léonie Dry White 2024
In Bommes, in the heart of the Sauternais, Château La Tour Blanche holds a unique place among the historic estates of Bordeaux. Classified as Premier Cru in 1855, the estate is also linked to an old educational vocation since its last private owner, Daniel Iffla, known as Osiris, bequeathed it to the State at the beginning of the 20th century to develop a school of viticulture and oenology there. This dual identity, both heritage and experimental, continues to nourish the work carried out in the vineyards as well as in the cellar. Léonie, whose name pays tribute to Osiris's wife, represents the estate's most ambitious dry expression. It is made from plots traditionally destined for the great white wines of the Sauternais, but harvested and vinified in a quest for freshness and tension. Sémillon plays a dominant role, bringing breadth, depth, and texture, while Sauvignon Blanc adds more energy and aromatic brightness. The 2024 vintage thus offers a contemporary interpretation of the great dry white Bordeaux, with ample matter supported by precise freshness.
Léonie Dry White 2024 blends 75% Sémillon and 25% Sauvignon Blanc. The grapes come from vines grown on the estate's gravelly and clay-limestone terroirs, where Sémillon finds favorable conditions for slow and regular ripening. The harvest is conducted with particular attention to the balance between aromatic maturity and acidity preservation. After pressing, the juices ferment and then continue aging on fine lees in barrels. This aging lasts about six months and aims to bring volume as well as a more enveloping texture without masking the fruit expression. The lees work enhances the depth of the Sémillon while preserving the liveliness of the Sauvignon Blanc. The 2024 vintage is distinguished by a profile that is both fleshy and taut, with matter already harmonious but sufficiently structured to evolve favorably in the bottle.
The color shows a luminous pale yellow, punctuated with slight golden reflections. The nose opens with fresh pear, white peach, and ripe citrus, then reveals nuances of white flowers, fine wax, and almond. On aeration, notes of candied lemon, yellow fruits, and a discreet smoky touch bring more depth. The palate is ample from the attack but remains perfectly balanced by a clear acidity that gives rhythm to the whole. Sémillon brings a silky texture and an almost chalky sensation, while Sauvignon Blanc stretches the finish on citrus and fine bitterness. A slight salinity enhances persistence and gives the wine a true gastronomic dimension. Léonie Dry White 2024 will accompany scallops, roasted fish, langoustines, creamy poultry, mushroom risotto, or pressed cheese.
Grape varieties: 75% Sémillon, 25% Sauvignon Blanc
