Rieussec 2015

“I’m delighted with this,” winemaker Charles Chevalier enthused, and so he should be, forthis is a superb Sauternes. Rich, exotic and concentrated with nearly 150 grams of sugar,supported by oak and acidity. Pineapple, citrus and pear flavours are beautifully entwinedhere. Drink: 2020-32

The 2015 Rieussec is more backward on the nose compared to the Carmes de Rieussec, with scents of honey, freshly sliced pineapple and almond, a hint of acacia and white flower gently unfurling in the glass. The palate is well balanced, quite tensile and while not as heavy or as viscous as the second wine, there is greater mineralité and finer delineation toward the finish. It is simply a class act. Anticipated maturity: 2022 - 2055.

The 2015 Rieussec, a blend of 86% Semillon and 14% Sauvignon Blanc, was picked over five tries through the vineyard between 9 September and 27 October. "We had a bit of frost towards the end and 10% was harvested afterwards. The quality was affected and this was put into the second wine," winemaker Eric Kohler informed me. This year the grand vin constitutes between one-third and one-fourth of the total crop. It has a fragrant bouquet, of honey, white almond and peach, that is disarmingly seductive. The palate is refined and poised: a lovely thread of acidity here, with a keen mineral-laden finish that leaves the mouth tingling with pleasure. This is a top-tier Rieussec that hits all the right buttons. Drink: 2020 - 2055.

The is a phenomenal wine with dried pineapple and pear aromas and flavors. Full, very sweet. Incredible depth and power. Super complex.