2003 Rieussec Sauternes Blend

Sauternes Blend - 375ML
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REVIEWS

JS 97 WS 95 JL 94
JS 97

jamessuckling.com, October 2016

So rich and powerful with so much dried apricots and citrus aromas and flavors. Caramel and toffee. Full and very sweet. Amazing.
WS 95

Wine Spectator, December 2006

Big rich and juicy. Voluptuous with aromas of caramel apple and light tropical fruit. Full-bodied round and very sweet with loads of ripe fruit and a long butterscotch and piecrust aftertaste. Viscous texture. Hard not to...
JL 94

TheWineCellarInsider.com, December 2012

Thick, rich, intense and packed with layers of perfectly, ripe tropical fruit slathered in honey, vanilla and nuts, this is a beautiful, sweet Bordeaux that offers a lot of pleasure today, and in the future. Read more...

WINE DETAILS

Color & Type Dessert
Varietal Sauternes Blend
Country France
Region Bordeaux
Sub-region Sauternes
Vintage 2003
Size 375ML
Percent alcohol 14%
Closure Cork

Chateau Rieussec is one of the largest properties in Sauternes and Barsac, covering 93 hectares of gravelly soil layered with alluvial deposits. The vineyard is planted mostly with Semillon (90%), followed by Sauvignon Blanc (7%) and Muscadelle (3%). It was classified as a First Growth in the 1855 Classification of Sauternes and Barsac.

The estate belonged to the Carmelite monks in Langon in the 18th century, but was confiscated during the revolution. In 1790, the property was sold as an “object of national heritage” to Mr. Marheilhac, owner at that time of Chateau La Louviere in Leognan.

The estate changed ownership several times until 1971 when it came into the hands of Albert Vuillier, passionate about Sauternes sweet wines but lacking the financial resources to make the necessary improvements. In 1984, Domaines Barons de Rothschild entered the scene and acquired Chateau Rieussec. Since then, the estate has made strides forward in quality and continues to produce outstanding wines.

Chateau Rieussec has been a leader among the great wines of Sauternes for several generations. Ranked as a Premier Grand Cru in 1855, it is made with a subtle blend of Semillon, Sauvignon and Muscadelle. Aged in oak barrels for 18 to 26 months depending on the year, with 50 to 55% in new barrels. The annual production varies a great deal depending on the vintage, but on average is about 6,000 cases, however, none was made in 1977, 1993 and 2012.

This 2003 Rieussec Sauternes Blend from Bordeaux, France is a white wine that truly exemplifies the art of winemaking. With its golden hue and luscious appearance, it entices the eye before even reaching the nose and palate. The wine's label is elegantly understated, allowing the liquid inside to speak for itself.

Upon pouring, the aromas that waft from the glass are simply captivating. The wine expertly combines notes of caramel apple and light tropical fruit, creating a bouquet that is both enticing and complex. These aromas are a prelude to the richness that awaits on the palate.

On the tongue, this Rieussec Sauternes Blend reveals itself as a true indulgence. Full-bodied and round, it coats the mouth with a viscous texture that only adds to its allure. The sweetness is pronounced, with ripe fruit flavors taking center stage. The butterscotch and piecrust aftertaste lingers, leaving a harmonious and satisfying finish.

Reviews from esteemed critics further validate the quality of this wine. Wine Spectator awarded it an impressive score of 95, describing it as "big, rich, and juicy." The publication notes its voluptuousness and praises its long-lasting appeal. James Suckling, on the other hand, rates it even higher with a score of 97. Their tasting note emphasizes the wine's power, with dried apricot and citrus aromas intertwined with hints of caramel and toffee.

Jeff Leve also recognizes the excellence of this vintage, awarding it a score of 94. He describes it as thick, rich, and intense, with layers of perfectly ripe tropical fruit enveloped in honey, vanilla, and nuts. Leve believes that this wine is not only enjoyable now, but also has the potential for further development in the future.

In conclusion, this 2003 Rieussec Sauternes Blend is a masterpiece from Bordeaux, France. Its impeccable balance, luxurious flavors, and exceptional reviews make it a wine worth savoring. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for later, this wine promises to deliver a truly remarkable experience for any wine enthusiast.