Château Rieussec, Sauternes Carmes de Rieussec 2020

Carmes de Rieussec is the second wine of Château Rieussec, one of Sauternes’ most respected estates, offering a beautifully expressive taste of this legendary sweet-wine region. Made with the same care as the grand vin, it delivers classic botrytis character, bright freshness, and the elegance that has made Rieussec a benchmark name in Bordeaux sweet wines.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, it shows a luminous golden hue with excellent clarity and depth. The nose is highly aromatic, led by citrus and orange peel, with layers of elderflower, clove, and the honeyed, floral notes typical of Sauternes. On the palate, the wine is rich and generous, yet balanced by vibrant acidity that keeps it fresh and precise. The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering notes of candied citrus and spice. While already approachable, it should also continue to develop gracefully for several years.

Production
Château Rieussec’s vineyards cover 93 hectares on the western edge of Sauternes, bordering Château d’Yquem, and benefit from the cool, humid conditions that encourage noble rot. The blend is typically based on 80–90% Sémillon, supported by Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle. Careful grape selection and low-yield production are central to the estate’s approach, with vinification focused on preserving intensity, balance, and aromatic purity.

Food & Serving
Serve lightly chilled at around 8–10°C. Carmes de Rieussec pairs wonderfully with blue cheese, foie gras, fruit-based desserts, tarte Tatin, or simply enjoyed on its own as an indulgent finish to a meal. Decanting is generally not necessary, though a short aeration can help open the aromas in younger bottles.

Producer
Originally owned in the 18th century by the Carmes de Langon monks, Château Rieussec was later sold after the French Revolution and eventually acquired by Domaines Barons de Rothschild in 1984. The Rothschild family invested heavily in quality, including a new cellar in 1989 and stricter grape selection, helping elevate the estate’s reputation further. A major highlight came when Château Rieussec 2001 was named Wine Spectator’s Wine of the Year in 2004, confirming its place among Sauternes’ elite producers.

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