Château Rieussec 2015 | Premier Cru Classé | Sauternes

Château Rieussec 2015

Wine Identification
This wine is Château Rieussec, a Premier Cru Classé (1855) from the Sauternes appellation within Bordeaux, France. The vintage is 2015. The estate is located on one of the highest hills in the denomination, near Yquem, and has been owned by Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) since 1984.

Origin and Winemaking
The vineyards feature red clay, flint, and sandy-clay gravel soils. The vines have an average age exceeding 40 years. The blend consists of 86% Sémillon and 14% Sauvignon Blanc. Harvesting was conducted through five successive passes between September 9 and October 27, 2015, selecting bunches with noble rot at their optimal point. The wine undergoes aging for 18 to 24 months in French oak barrels, half of which are new.

Tasting Profile
The 2015 Rieussec presents a bright, pale straw-gold color. It is described as elegant and fine, with a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel supported by a racy backbone that cuts through earthy and citrus layers. The finish is long and spicy. Aromas and flavors include lemon marmalade, orange blossom, beeswax, acacia honey, preserved kumquats, and peach compote. While slightly closed at this youthful stage, the wine exhibits wonderful purity and depth. It is classified as a sweet wine.

Critical Reception
The Wine Advocate (Parker) awarded 96 points, noting its elegance and fine structure. James Suckling gave it 99 points. The review highlights the wine’s complexity, mentioning notes of lemon marmalade, orange blossoms, beeswax, and acacia honey with hints of preserved kumquats and peach compote.

Overall Character
Château Rieussec 2015 is a refined Sauternes that balances rich, sweet fruit flavors with vibrant acidity and spicy length. Its heritage from one of Bordeaux’s most prestigious estates and meticulous harvesting methods contribute to its exceptional quality.