Chateau Rieussec 2008

2008 Sauternes 1er Cru Classe

Chateau Rieussec estate dates back to the 18th century and was previously owned by Carmes de Langon monks. Chateau Rieussec Sauternes AOC wines were classified Premier Cru in 1855. The 2008 vintage is 86% Semillon, 12% Sauvignon, and 2% Muscadelle.

This is a rich, creamy and sweet white. The nose exudes subtle light, ethereal fruit scents, marked by light hints of wood. The bouquet reveals flowers, peach, apricot and jam. The palate offers honey coated attack combined with vanilla, orange peel, marmalade and quince.

Wine Advocate-Parker :
The 2008 Rieussec is a blend of 86% Semillon, 12% Sauvignon Blanc and 2% Muscadelle picked from 29 September until 14 November over four or five pickings. The nose seemed to have closed down since I last encountered it in 2012, quite earthy and resinous, lacking some spark. The palate is much better with sour lemon and quince on the entry, a touch of patisserie, strangely making me think of Danish pastry towards the well-defined finish. This 2008 is a little difficult to work out at the moment, perhaps overwhelmed by the succeeding vintage. Tasted April 2016.