1997 Sauternes, Château Rieussec
About Producer
Founded in the 18th century by the monks of Carmes de Langon, Château Rieussec passed into the hands of numerous owners following the classification of 1855 before it was acquired by the Rothschilds of Lafite in 1984. The 93ha vineyard lies on sandy, gravel and clay soil at one of the highest points of the appellation, at the junction of Fargues and Sauternes with vines abutting those of Yquem. The Rothschilds subsequently rolled out massive renovation and transformation works that led to more severe selection for the production of the grand vin. The wine is aged for 18-26 months in barrels, 50-55% new oak, and around 6,000 cases are produced every year. There was no release in 1977, 1993 and 2012.
Varietals
Blend of 95% sémillon, 4% muscadelle and 1% sauvignon blanc.
About Appellation
Sauternes appellation covers 2,200ha of vines and sit on gravel and pebbles on limestone soil with clay veins. The appellation includes wine from the five villages of Sauternes, Barsac, Bommes, Fargues and Preignac. The area benefits from a unique microclimate where cold waters of River Ciron meeting warmer currents of River Garonne generate autumnal mists that trigger the development of noble rot (Botrytis cinerea) across the vineyards. Sémillon reigns supreme with 80% of the plantings, with sauvignon blanc and, in a tiny proportion, muscadelle playing the supporting role. It's home to 27 grands crus classés in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, with Yquem having the unique title of Premier Cru Supérieur.
Tasting Notes
Captivating nose of orchard fruits, mandarine liqueur, honey, vanilla, sweet spices and white flowers, unctuous mouthfeel with satiny texture, excellent concentration and amazing purity, multilayered flavours of ripe peach, pear, apricot and candied orange liberally laced with hints of marzipan and baking spices, racy acidity carrying through a long, persistent finish. At 25 years old, this is a splendid wine with amazing colour, ethereal elegance and remarkable complexity walking a tightrope between tangy opulence and vibrant freshness. It’s deliciously rich, dense and sweet without ever straying into cloying or sirupy, and there is a lively bead of acidity throughout the palate that adds an exquisite overlay to the aftertaste. (04/2022)