Chateau de Rayne Vigneau 2004

2004 Sauternes, 1er Cru Classe, Bordeaux

The 2004 Sauternes 1er cru classe (1855) Chateau de Rayne Vigneau is a subtle blend of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc. This wine is produced from an 84 hectare vineyard of 33 years old on average. 
This vintage reveals oak and candied lemon notes. Woody and delicate, this Sauternes develops on lovely grilled almond notes. The palate is round, less ample than the previous vintage, yet subtle. The Chateau de Rayne Vigneau offers a good balance between acidity and sugar. On the whole, this wine is pleasant and aromatically rich.

Wine Advocate-Parker :
The 2004 Rayne-Vigneau has a refined bouquet that takes time to unfold - hints of butterscotch and creme fraiche, Japanese plum, orange rind and that tincture of mushroom. There is something a little pinched here, as if it does not want to give everything away (at least at this point in time.) The palate has a saline touch on the entry, a fine line of acidity with a delicate spicy, quince-infused finish. This is very approachable and should drink nicely over the next 10 years. Drink now-2024. Tasted February 2014.