Carmes de Rieussec 2011

A fine Sauternes wine, complex and elegant

The estate

Château Rieussec is located in the prestigious Sauternes appellation, in the south of the Bordeaux region. This château is steeped in history and belonged to the Carmelite monks of Langon in the 18th century. It was then sold as "National Property" following the French Revolution. Classified as an 1855 Sauternes Premier Grand Cru, Château Rieussec was acquired by the Rothschild family in 1984.

The vineyard

The estate’s Second Vin, Carmes de Rieussec, is a Sauternes wine that stems from a sandy-clay gravel terroir. The vineyard of Château Rieussec is situated on the border between Fargues and Sauternes and covers 93 hectares, thus making it one of the largest estates in the appellation.

The vintage

The year 2011 began with relatively dry conditions from January to April. Then, morning dews combined with low rainfall and high temperatures led to significant disease pressure (oidium) in the vineyard. The alternation between rain and fine weather in August and September favoured the development of botrytis. The fine Indian summer that followed was ideal and refined the ripening process until the harvest.

Vinification and ageing

50% of the wine is vinified in vats and 50% in first-fill barrels. The 18-month ageing period is carried out in used barrels from the Domaines Barons de Rothschild cooperage.

The blend

Semillon (84%)

Sauvignon Blanc (12%)

Muscadelle (4%).

Carmes de Rieussec 2011: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Nose

Intense, the nose reveals floral (acacia) and fruity (fresh pear, candied apricot) fragrances.

Palate

A round attack precedes a seductive mineral expression on the palate. The finish is persistent, with delicious fruity notes.

Service

For an optimal tasting experience, serve between 8 and 10°C.