2017 Rieussec
By Chateau Rieussec
2017 Rieussec from Chateau Rieussec, Sauternes, Bordeaux
In the world of sumptuous sweet wines, the 2017 Rieussec from Chateau Rieussec represents a particularly fascinating chapter from the historic Sauternes region of Bordeaux. The estate, a consistent deliverer of bewitching liquorous wines, has outdone itself with a vintage that commands attention for its sophisticated character and potential as a formidable investment.
Nuance and Nobility: A Delectable Investment
The 2017 vintage in Sauternes was not without its challenges; frost significantly reduced yields across the region. However, this adversity was met with a silver lining, as concentrated flavours emerged in the surviving crop. When one contemplates investment in fine wines, the limited nature of such vintages magnifies their appeal - exclusivity paired with exceptional quality often heralds an uptick in desirability among connoisseurs and investors alike.
A Vintage Defined by Concentrated Opulence
Rieussec's 2017 offering encapsulates all that one could desire from a classic Sauternes. The wine’s bouquet dances with succulent notes of candied apricot, honeyed peaches and a subtle hint of ginger spice. The palate reveals an exquisite balance between vivacious acidity and velvety sweetness, forging a profile that stands as a paragon amongst sweet whites.
The meticulous botrytization of the Semillon grapes - allowing noble rot to concentrate sugars and flavours - has been masterfully coaxed into creating a wine suffused with complexity and grace. The whisper of French oak ageing entwines seamlessly with the rich fruit, culminating in an elongated, harmoniously resplendent finish.
As the wine ages, it promises to unveil further layers of aromatic splendour and refined palate structure. The 2017 Rieussec is poised for an extended tenure within cellars, steadily elevating its allure as both a sensory indulgence and an astute addition to any discerning investor's portfolio.
In summary, those who seek to enrich their collection with a remarkably distinguished vintage from Sauternes would find themselves enlightened by the inclusion of the 2017 Rieussec from Chateau Rieussec. It is clearly one among those rare vintages wherein nature’s quirks have been transformed into liquid treasure, fostering an auspicious opportunity for investment with promising maturity prospects.
Market price (GBP)
£300.00
12x75cl
Highest score
98
POP score
16.67
Scores and tasting notes
This is very focused and an intense with so much spice and dried lemon character with cloves and dry mushroom too. Full body and very sweet yet finishes dry and spice. Harmonious and great.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com
Blended of 83% Sémillon and 17% Sauvignon Blanc, the 2017 Rieussec gives up beautiful notes of orange marmalade, beeswax, acacia honey and yuzu with touches of lemon tart, grapefruit pastilles and musk perfume. The palate is full, rich and unctuous with incredible layers of citrus and honeyed fruits, finishing very long and perfumed.
Wine Advocate - Lisa Perrotti-Brown - robertparker.com
A blend of 83% Semillon and 17% Sauvignon Blanc, the 2017 Rieussec is pale to medium lemon-gold colored. To begin, the nose blows you away with intense lemon tart, lime cordial, mango and quince notes followed by a second wave of floral, orange blossoms and honeysuckle scents, and then notes of crushed rocks, crème caramel and marzipan join the party. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is still very tightly wound with concentrated sweetness and a racy backbone to match, delivering layer upon layer of citrus and savory flavors, finishing on a persistent mineral note.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 16 March 2020
The 2017 Rieussec was affected by the frost, losing around 15% of the production although, it was more located in parcels that are designated for the dry white R de Rieussec. Eric Kohler told me that it was a relatively rapid picking. It has around 125gm/L residual sugar. It has a clean but slightly distant bouquet, does not really exude the richness that you expect from Sauternes. The palate is medium-bodied and more promising than the nose: a viscous opening, quite spicy and slightly Auslese in style. The acidity is well balanced and it becomes increasingly lively towards the lychee and fennel-tinged finish, as if compensating for the nose.
Neal Martin - Neal Martin - vinous.com - May '18