CHATEAU RIEUSSEC 'R de Rieussec' Bordeaux Blanc Sec de Sauternes 2021 Bottle 12.5%abv (Semillon / Sauvignon Blanc)

Description

The First Growth Sauternes property of Château Rieussec was acquired by Domaines Barons de Rothschild Lafite in 1984. Covering 93 hectares Château Rieussec is one of the largest properties in the region with vineyards that extend to the border of Fargues and Sauternes and adjoin those of Château d’Yquem.

For several generations it has been the leading name in Sauternes and, since purchasing the estate, Domaines Barons de Rothschild Lafite have implemented a number of measures to enhance Rieussec's potential. Extensive pruning and the sparing use of natural fertiliser helps keep production low. The techniques remain traditional and specific to the Sauternes region. In terms of yields, the traditional reference is that a single vine should produce a bottle of wine. Here, though, a single vine produces about a glass of wine. Traditional fermentation takes place in stainless steel vats and can last as long as two months. The wine is aged for 16 to 26 months in oak barrels, produced mostly at Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) cooperage and half are renewed each year. In 2000, renovations and new construction continued to represent the forward strides in quality implemented by Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite).

In addition to the iconic botrytis wines produced at Rieussec, a dry expression of the grapes is produced. R de Rieussec brings the same Sauvignon and Sémillon blend together but with a vibrant dry style suited to every occasion. Partly produced from the same vines as the Sauternes, 20% of fermentation takes place in barrels which enhances the wine’s potential to age, while preserving its freshness and the natural fruitiness from the grapes.

"R" de Rieussec is a dry white wine produced at the Grand Cru estate of Château Rieussec in the Bordeaux appellation of Sauternes. "R" de Rieussec was originally produced for consumption within the Rothschild family; however, the improving quality of this wine, coupled with fashion dictating a drier style meant that it was thankfully released to the general public. Global warming, and the capricious nature of noble rot (the fungus that creates the luscious wines of Sauternes) have forced producers in Sauternes to focus their attentions on the production of dry wines and "R" de Rieussec is one of the finest examples of this modern style. The wine is an almost equal blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, of which 20% is barrel fermented. There are lovely aromas of citrus and passion fruit and well integrated notes of oak. The palate is very smooth, underscored by an acidity that contributes to the wine’s length. There is excellent volume with a delicious touch of butter thanks to the use of oak barrels.