2021, Château Rieussec, SAUTERNES, 1er Grand Cru Classé

Bordeaux Blend: Muscadelle, Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon

2021 was an excellent vintage for Sauternes 

The 2021 Rieussec is bright, floral and super-refined. White flowers, lemon confit, pear, passionfruit and mint are all nicely lifted, with beams of bright acids that lend support. As has been the case in recent years, Rieussec is done in a style that is all about maintaining freshness and verve. There's plenty of both here. The 2021 was harvested over 3-4 picks. Yields are down 30%, which is a very favourable result for the year in Sauternes. The 125 grams of residual sugar are not at all evident. 94-96 Antonio Galloni, Vinous. Drink 2026-2041 (Tasted April 2022)

Medium-bodied with spice and caramel. Dried mushroom and cloves. Orange peel and burnt orange. Medium-sweet. 93-94 James Suckling (Tasted June 2022)