The Tb points given to this wine are the world’s most valid and most up-to-date evaluation of the quality of the wine. Tastingbook points are formed by the Tastingbook algorithm which takes into account the wine ratings of the world's best-known professional wine critics, wine ratings by thousands of tastingbook’s professionals and users, the generally recognised vintage quality and reputation of the vineyard and winery. Wine needs at least five professional ratings to get the Tb score. Tastingbook.com is the world's largest wine information service which is an unbiased, non-commercial and free for everyone.
Wine Description
The Story
Château Rieussec has been a leading wine in Sauternes for several generations. Ranked as a Premier Grand Cru in 1855, it is made with a subtle blend of Sémillon, Sauvignon and Muscadelle. Production varies a great deal depending on the vintage, but on average is about 6,000 cases (however, none was made in 1977, 1993 and 2012).
Blend: 90 to 95% Sémillon, 5 to 10% Muscadelle and Sauvignon
Ageing: in oak barrels from 18 to 26 months depending on the year, 50 to 55% in new barrels
Wine Information
Once again, this vintage is very different from the classic pattern. Tropical weather in the second half of August caused the rapid development of noble rot, and we began harvesting on 27 August, which was so early as to be almost unheard of in Sauternes. Selective picking continued until 3 November, virtually without a drop of rain. The harvests were long and difficult, because the vines had to be carefully cleaned.
TASTING NOTES (AT BOTTLING)
The result is a very fine, silky vintage with good acidity, superb concentration and a diverse bouquet. It is a powerful wine with a structure that promises a very long life.
