Description
Rieussec is one of the most important vineyards of this appellation. It extends over 85 hectares at the junction of Fargues and Sauternes, adjacent to Château d’Yquem. Its sandy gravel (80%) and clay (20%) soils have been coveted by many owners since its creation. The techniques used in the vineyard are traditional to the Sauternes region. Harvesting takes place from September to November, over a period of 6 to 8 weeks, with several successive selections depending on the state of ripeness of the grapes and the development of botrytis cinerea (noble rot). Rieussec became part of the Domaines Barons de Rothschild Lafite family in 1984 and soon after a new winery was built in the heart of the vineyard. Being the second Wine of the property, Carmes de Rieussec is a Sauternes wine from a terroir of clay-sandy gravel. The Château Rieussec vineyard extends over 93 hectares at the junction of Fargues and Sauternes, making it one of the largest in the appellation. Grapes of Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc are pressed and fermented separately. At the end of fermentation, the wines are kept on the lees and stirred regularly until mid-December. After a resting period, the wines are racked and blended before being returned to the barrels to age for about 12 months.
Tasting Note :
The nose is subtle, with an initial minerality and notes of hot stone and dry grass after a storm. Fruity notes of fresh apricot and some white flowers follow. On the nose and palate, a Sauvignon aroma guides, with a light lemony feel and plenty of freshness on the palate. The confit is discreet, the wood very well integrated, giving life to a chiselled wine.
