Characteristics and tasting advice for Carmes de Rieussec 2023
Tasting
Nose
This vintage opens with an intense bouquet combining candied apricot, citrus and subtle floral touches.
Palate
On the palate, the candied aromas and freshness balance harmoniously. The texture, of remarkable finesse, marks an exceptional vintage. A very great Carmes, both powerful and elegant.
A Sauternes wine seductive in aromatic richness and complexity
The property
The Château Rieussec is located in the prestigious Sauternes appellation, south of the Bordeaux region. This historic château belonged to the Carmelite monks of Langon in the 18th century and was sold as a “national asset” after the Revolution. Classified as a Premier Grand Cru de Sauternes in the 1855 classification, Château Rieussec was acquired by the Rothschild family in 1984.
The vineyard
Second Wine of Château Rieussec, Carmes de Rieussec is a Sauternes wine from a terroir of clayey-sandy gravels. The vineyard of Château Rieussec extends over 93 hectares at the junction of Fargues and Sauternes, making it one of the most important in the appellation.
The vintage
The 2023 vintage experienced a wetter winter than in 2022, although still below normal. Two nights of frost caused localized damage, without real impact on production. The spring and early summer, marked by a tropical climate, were followed by high temperatures in August and September. Driven by the richness of the Rieussec terroirs and the good vitality of the vines, the harvest gave birth to wines of great purity, combining balance and finesse.
Vinification and aging
After the harvest, the grapes arriving at the winery are immediately pressed. After settling, the musts are then barreled for parcel vinification. Once the alcoholic fermentation is completed, the lees juices are regularly stirred until mid-December. After a rest period, racking is carried out followed by blending before additional aging in barrels for about 12 months.
Blend
Sémillon (82%)
Sauvignon blanc (11%)
Muscadelle (7%).
