The Chateau Rieussec Carmes de Rieussec is an evocative Sauternes that exudes class and sophistication. This French wine demonstrates an exquisite blend of rich, sun-ripened fruits and delicate spices. Its golden hue reflects its distinct grapes, and one can taste tantalising hints of honey, almond and apricots as they sip. Being semi-sweet, it finishes beautifully on the palate. This wine enjoys a full-bodied spectrum as it brings forth a well-balanced acidity that is neither too harsh nor too flat. A remarkable companion to gourmet desserts or a delectable cheese plate, it transforms each indulgence into an exquisite encounter.

Tasting Notes

The colour is a beautiful bright, pale yellow, with glints of green indicating the wine’s youth. The nose is already intense and reveals notes of tropical fruit such as mango and pineapple. There are still some well-integrated oaky notes from the barrel ageing. The attack is subtle and elegant with a beautiful liveliness that very much characterizes the vintage. Superb volume on the mid-palate. The wine remains balanced and consistent through to the finish, which reveals a very mild sweetness with lightly roasted notes evoking caramel.

About the Winery

Château Rieussec is a prestigious winery nestled in the heart-stirring landscapes of Bordeaux territory in the Sauternes appellation, France. Founded in the 18th century by Carmelite monks, its sublime, harmonious wines trace their rich heritage back over three centuries.

This lavishly conspicuous château is ensconced amid 92 hectares of vineyard, flush with the Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle grapes that conjure the estate's inimitable Sauternes. The iron-rich clay and gravelly soil, combined with the region’s précis climate, make the terroir ideal for fostering these particular grapes to perfection.

The estate's renowned dessert wine, the Château Rieussec, walks a delicate balance between sweetness and acidity, expressing opulent notes of honey, tropical fruit, apricot, and toasted bread. Not straying from tradition, the vinification process is a meticulous labour of love, with only the best botrytised grapes hand-harvested for fermentation in new oak barrels. This scrupulous attention to detail punctuates every facet of Château Rieussec's craftsmanship, culminating in an exquisite wine that captivates the senses.

However, Château Rieussec isn't simply noteworthy for its vintage offerings. The winery itself is a treasured piece of architecture, crafted in the Classical style common during the time of its construction with a nod to Bordeaux's storied past. Visitors are captivated by the surrounding landscape - the undulating vineyards, watched over by the towering château, are sights to behold, making it a popular destination for wine enthusiasts worldwide.

In 1984, Château Rieussec was acquired by the Rothschild family, they fostered an extraordinary revival, ensuring its wines consistently ranked among the best in the world. With their unwavering commitment to quality, Château Rieussec is a beacon of viticultural excellence. From sun-drenched vines to the gleaming wine glass, every thread of the Château's story is steeped in a rich tradition, and every sip a testament to the longevity of this lyrical craft. Punctuated by brilliance, Château Rieussec is a testament to the craft of winemaking.

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