Carmes de Rieussec 2016

Complex and refined, a fine Sauternes wine

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

The mild and humid weather at the beginning of winter gave way to cooler conditions which lasted up until budbreak around April 8th. The summer drought led to significant water stress until the end of veraison period. The rainy episode on September 13th was beneficial for the vineyard and was followed by hot and dry weather which caused a late development of botrytis. The grapes were harvested under ideal conditions from September 26th to November 4th, resulting in a vintage with a great potential.

The blend

Semillon (97%)

Muscadelle (2%).

Sauvignon Blanc (1%)

Carmes de Rieussec 2016: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Colour

Brilliant, the colour is a beautiful pale yellow with green highlights.

Nose

Intense, the nose exudes exotic fruit fragrances (mango, pineapple) mixed with subtle notes of wood conferred by the ageing process.

Palate

A discreet and elegant attack precedes a full and balanced palate. Throughout the tasting experience, the palate reveals a beautiful sweetness enhanced by caramelised and roasted notes.

Service

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