Chateau de Rayne Vigneau 84-hectare vineyard lies on a magnificent rump overlooking Sauternes -wine sub region of Bordeaux. The 2003 vintage is 80% Semillon and 20% Sauvignon Blanc.
This 1er Cru Classefrom Sauternes AOC displays a golden hue. The very intense nose exudes marmalade and exotic fruits. The palate offers generous candied fruits and very pleasant volume, with extraordinary length.
Compared to a bottle tasted earlier the same morning, I notice a more petrol-like scent emerging, a touch of reduction that manifests a minty, almost leathery note. The palate is medium-bodied with mango and banana skin on the entry. It is missing a little acidity, although it musters more freshness toward the finish, with adequate if not extraordinary levels of botrytis. Drink now-2018. Tasted April 2013.