2014 Rieussec
By Chateau Rieussec
2014 Rieussec from Chateau Rieussec, Sauternes, Bordeaux
In the canon of venerable Sauternes, the 2014 vintage of Rieussec from Chateau Rieussec stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of this prestigious sweet wine-producing region. Throughout my four-decade tryst with the liquid gold of Bordeaux, rare are those vintages which display such an intriguing confluence of climate conditions and resultant alchemy in the bottle.
A Harvest Against the Odds
The challenges presented by the 2014 growing season in Bordeaux brought about a fortuitous consequence for Sauternes. The dry summer laid an impeccable foundation, while autumn's moisture fostered noble rot—key for the distinctive botrytized character so revered in this style of wine. These juxtaposing forces forged a Sauternes with striking intensity and freshness.
Distinctive Character of 2014
The 2014 Rieussec unfurls with a taut bouquet, where glimmers of apricot jam and honeycomb merge with hints of almond and orange zest. The palate is a triumph—a kaleidoscope of candied citrus peel, saffron-laced pears, and toasted brioche steeped in an elegantly structured acidity, bestowing balance upon its opulent sweetness. Perhaps the most compelling feather in this vintage's cap is its precision—an exacting expression reflective of Sauternes’ singular ability to navigate the tightrope walk between sugar and acidity deftly.
For fine wine investors seeking offerings with longevity and potential for refinement with age, this vintage corroborates Sauternes’ prowess for producing lasting wines with unwavering grace—attributes that position the 2014 Rieussec suitably within a seasoned portfolio.
Investment Worthy Elegance
The singularity displayed by the 2014 Rieussec from Chateau Rieussec offers not only a luxurious sensory indulgence but stands as a compelling candidate for investment. Its amalgamated poise and complexity assure its place among notable vintages capable of transcending time—a storied bottle from an estate that continues to shape the archetype of fine sweet Bordeaux wines.
Market price (SGD)
$580.00
12x75cl
Highest score
98
POP score
19.44
Scores and tasting notes
No tasting note available.
James Suckling - Jamesuckling.com (04/2015)
The Château Rieussec 2014 is a blend of 93% Semillon, 5% Sauvignon Blanc and 2% Muscadelle, picked from 15 to 29 October through seven tries, the yield half the normal crop at 13 hectoliters per hectare. Charles Chevalier, how lest we forget started here and not chez Lafite, told me that the beginning of September had overripe grapes with passerillage – the second part had very good levels of botrytis. The blend is from these two parts. The bouquet is very well defined with crystal clear honeysuckle and white peach scents. The palate is beautifully balanced with nigh on perfect acidity that makes this seem just so…effortless. I would like to see a little more persistence on the finish, but otherwise this is classic Rieussec that might...and I stress might...just give that Sauternes beginning with the 25th letter of the alphabet, a run for its money.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 29 April 2015
No tasting note available.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate