Carmes de Rieussec represents the second wine of Château Rieussec, a distinguished Premier Cru Classé estate within the revered Sauternes appellation. Sourced from younger vines and specific parcels, it benefits from the same exceptional terroir and meticulous winemaking philosophy as its Grand Vin. The 2018 vintage showcases the quintessential characteristics of Sauternes, where the unique microclimate of the Ciron and Garonne rivers fosters the development of Botrytis cinerea, or noble rot. This natural phenomenon concentrates sugars and acids, imparting profound complexity and a distinctive aromatic profile to the wine. Crafted primarily from Sémillon, with a proportion of Sauvignon Blanc, Carmes de Rieussec undergoes a precise vinification and ageing regime designed to express its inherent elegance and balance, offering an earlier-drinking expression of this noble sweet wine.
Tasting notes
The 2018 Carmes de Rieussec presents a luminous golden hue in the glass. On the nose, it offers an intricate bouquet of candied apricot, ripe peach, and marmalade, underscored by delicate notes of acacia honey and a subtle hint of saffron from the noble rot. The palate is rich and unctuous, yet beautifully balanced by a vibrant acidity that prevents any cloying sensation. Flavours of dried mango, citrus peel, and a touch of toasted almond persist through a long, elegant finish, showcasing the wine's inherent freshness and potential for graceful evolution.