Carmes de Rieussec 2010

A rich and smooth Sauternes Second Vin

The estate

Château Rieussec is located in the prestigious Sauternes appellation, in the south of the Bordeaux region. This château is steeped in history and belonged to the Carmelite monks of Langon in the 18th century. It was then sold as "National Property" following the French Revolution. Classified as an 1855 Sauternes Premier Grand Cru, Château Rieussec was acquired by the Rothschild family in 1984.

The vineyard

The estate’s Second Vin, Carmes de Rieussec, is a Sauternes wine that stems from a sandy-clay gravel terroir. The vineyard of Château Rieussec is situated on the border between Fargues and Sauternes and covers 93 hectares, thus making it one of the largest estates in the appellation.

The vintage

Bearing similarities to the 2009 vintage, the year 2010 started with a lot of rainfall, lasting until mid-June. The summer was very dry, with warm daytime temperatures offset by cool nights, were ideal conditions and ensured a gradual and even ripening of the grapes.

Vinification and ageing

Vinification 50% in vats and 50% in first-fill barrels. The 18-month ageing period is carried out in used barrels from the Domaines Barons de Rothschild cooperage.

The blend

Semillon (92%)

Sauvignon Blanc (5%)

Muscadelle (3%).

Carmes de Rieussec 2010: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Colour

The colour is a beautiful light gold.

Nose

The nose seduces with its intense expression of candied exotic fruits.

Palate

Dense on the attack, the palate reveals subtle honeyed notes throughout the tasting experience.

Service

For an optimal tasting, serve between 8 and 10°C.