2011 Chateau Rieussec 1. Cru Sauternes

France / Bordeaux / Sauternes 1. Cru
 
2011 Château Rieussec 1. Cru (1st Growth / Premier Cru Classé in 1855).

Expert tasting note: "Pale to medium straw yellow in colour. The aromas are rich and honeyed. The wine is intensely sweet, has good body and complex honey and crème brulee flavours. The alcohol is balanced to warm and the acidity balances the sweetness so the long finish doesn’t cloy. This is a good example of Rieussec".

Blend:
95% Sémillon, 3% Muscadelle, 2% Sauvignon Blanc.

Ratings:
Le Guide Hachette des Vins: 2 stars.
James Suckling: 96-97/100.
Wine Spectator: 96/100.
Robert Parker Wine Advocate: 95/100.
Wine Enthusiast: 95/100.
Falstaff Magazin: 96/100.
Stephen Tanzer: 95/100.
The Wine Cellar Insider/Jeff Leve: 94/100.
Decanter: 18.5/20.
Vinum Wine Magazine: 18/20.

In the 18th century, the Rieussec estate belonged to the Carmes de Langon monks. The domain was purchased by Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) in 1984. The estate then covered 110ha, including 68ha of vineyards. To enhance Château Rieussec's potential, a meticulous sorting of berries, strict vinification and fermentation in barrels have been then implemented year by year. For several generations, Château Rieussec has been a leading name in Sauternes wines.

Baron Eric de Rothschild: "The wines of Sauternes are so wonderful that we wanted to have our own, and Rieussec’s vineyard is outstanding" .