Rieussec - Sauternes 2021

Rieussec - Sauternes 2021

Chateau Rieussec, a work of sharing and transmission.

Recognised by all, Chateau Rieussec, the estate's first grand cru classé, was born of the masterful marriage of a unique terroir and exceptional know-how, it is celebrating its metamorphosis.

Breaking with the established codes of Sauternes, Chateau Rieussec has imposed its innovative and creative image, its precious, modern, timeless and convivial nature. Its unique richness, its delicate osmosis make it a contemporary king of the party who handles with the same ease, humour and elegance. It has managed to convince us that it can be tasted in many different occasions, like so many different cuisines and seasons. If we know that it can be kept easily once opened, we must remember that it is a wine that can be kept for decades. 

The 2021 vintage

The winter of 2021 will remain engraved in the memories of our winegrowers. With temperatures plunging to -9 degrees, frost has never affected the whole of France so severely. It arrived without warning, with a brazen attitude, following no rules. Then spring came and the vines began to flower at the end of May. June and July were rainy, and as the millimetres of water accumulated. Veraison began mid-July under unstable skies that lasted until mid-August. Fortunately, the following months were more stable. After a dry white harvest, rain on 15 September and regular fog allowed noble rot to set in gradually. A first sorting on 1 October was promising but confirmed the very low yields of the vintage. Things accelerated in the second half of october and the teams and the teams carried out up to 4 selections, ending up with some magnificent grapes on 29 October.$

Tasting notes 

The nose is powerful, with notes of dried fruit (apricots and currants) and roasted pineapple, enhanced by hints of toast and smoke. The palette then evolves towards grilled almonds and apricot crumble. On the palate, the wine offers a fine balance of freshness, with a gentle sensation of exotic fruits such as papaya and mango. Cooked apricots round out the flavours.