2021 Château Valandraud Bordeaux Blanc

Winery Château Valandraud

Château Valandraud was founded in 1991 by Jean-Luc Thunevin and Murielle Andraud and quickly became one of Saint-Émilion's most talked-about estates. What began as a garage project has evolved into a fixture among Bordeaux's top tiers. In addition to its red Grand Vin, Valandraud Blanc also enjoys international recognition. The winery is known for precision, low yields, and a clear focus on quality and aging potential.

More information about this winery can be found under the Winery tab.

Bordeaux 2021 and the character of the vintage

The 2021 vintage in Bordeaux was characterized by a cool and challenging growing season. Lower temperatures and higher rainfall resulted in slow ripening and a clear emphasis on freshness and balance. This proved to be a significant advantage for white wines, resulting in aromatic precision and pronounced acidity.

Valandraud Blanc took full advantage of these conditions. Instead of pure weight and richness, the wine displays a light, energetic style with plenty of tension and layering. This makes the 2021 vintage particularly appealing to winemakers who appreciate finesse and ageing potential.

Vineyards and origins of Valandraud Blanc

The grapes for Valandraud Blanc come from carefully selected plots with chalky soils, which impart freshness and mineral tension. The location and soil structure contribute to a long growing season and precise aromatic development.

Yields are low, and selection is strict. Harvest took place between September 7th and 20th, 2021, with the optimal timing chosen for each plot. This approach results in a white wine with concentration and clarity, without sacrificing elegance.

Grape varieties and composition

Valandraud Blanc is made from classic white Bordeaux grape varieties. The blend focuses on balance between aromatic expression, texture, and freshness. The exact composition can vary annually, depending on the quality of the vintage.

In 2021, the emphasis is on tension and precision, with grapes contributing citrus aromas, floral notes and a mineral core.

Vinification and maturation

After harvest, the grapes were carefully pressed and fermented, with attention paid to preserving aromatic purity. Vinification focused on texture and depth, without losing the freshness so characteristic of this vintage.

The wine was aged in approximately 80% new oak barrels. This aging adds structure and complexity, while remaining well-integrated. The oak influence supports the fruit and mineral tension, without being overpowering.

Color, aroma and taste of 2021 Valandraud Blanc

In the glass, the wine displays a clear, light golden yellow color. The nose is layered and precise, with aromas of yellow plum, persimmon, apple blossom, and white flowers. There are also mineral notes reminiscent of wet stone and slate, with subtle hints of smoke and white chocolate.

On the palate, the wine is fresh and lively, with fine acidity that carries the structure. Flavors of lemon confit, grapefruit, and pineapple are supported by a light, waxy texture and a distinct mineral core. The finish is long, energetic, and refined.

Structure, style and storage potential

The 2021 Valandraud Blanc combines intensity with a remarkably light palate. The wine has depth and power, yet remains elegant and balanced. This isn't a wine that aims to impress quickly, but a cuvée that unfolds steadily.

Thanks to its structure and freshness, this wine has impressive ageing potential. With bottle aging, its complexity will further increase, and the fruit, oak, and minerality will continue to blend.

Summary of professional reviews

Neal Martin and Antonio Galloni awarded the 2021 Valandraud Blanc 94 points, praising the wine for its intensity, freshness, and precision. They emphasized the layered aromas of citrus, white fruit, flowers, and mineral notes, as well as its excellent aging potential. The full review texts can be found in the Professional Reviews tab.

Would you like to order Château Valandraud wines online?

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you this information when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, right next to the A16 motorway, with ample parking. Click here for our address.

You can read the full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers.

Wine and food pairings

Turbot with beurre blanc and citrus peel complements the wine’s tension and fresh acidity.

Lobster with a light butter sauce and fennel enhances the creamy texture and mineral core.

Risotto with lemon, Parmesan and white truffle suits the layering and length of the wine.

Grilled scallops with cauliflower cream combine beautifully with the delicate smoky and mineral notes.

Roasted chicken with sage and lemon strikes a balance between freshness and texture.

White asparagus with hollandaise sauce and almond enhances the refinement and aromatic precision.