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New Release: Rieussec 2019

The 2019 vintage from Chateau Rieussec in Sauternes has just been released.

Rieussec, whose vineyards border those of Yquem, is owned by Domaines Barons de Rothschild-Lafite. The Rothschilds are positioning this release, already outside of the traditional en primeur system, as 'L’Art de La Métamorphose', with a positive drive towards greater sustainability with environmentally friendly packaging.

A brilliant Rieussec with so much personality

Jane Anson, Decanter


The time had come for Rieussec to reinvent itself... Devising an original bottle, one that you want to keep when it’s finished, is part of this same philosophy.” - Saskia de Rothschild

They are releasing the wine in recycled glass bottles, that might be re-used when empty. The bottle is designed with a re-usable cork, which can be kept in the fridge so that you can enjoy the wine over a couple of weeks - even the label is easily removable - and the bottles are packaged in eco-friendly cardboard boxes of 4. This appears to be a statement of intent from the owners of Lafite that not all traditions must be adhered to, and that Sauternes is not stuck in the past.


Rieussec 2019 @ £340 per 4 bottles


Marmalade and bitter orange peel is totally gorgeous, and this is one of the best Rieussec's that I can remember. A ton of juicy minerality, not overly concentrated but full of fresh pineapple and white mango, white peach and pear. 120g/l residual sugar. A brilliant Rieussec with so much personality and a full, rich texture through the mid palate. Drinking Window 2021 - 2045

95pt Jane Anson, Decanter


Pale lemon-gold in color, the 2019 Rieussec flaunts a delicately scented nose of fresh grapefruit, lemon curd, lime leaves and clover honey with wafts of jasmine, white truffles and nutmeg. The palate slowly builds, revealing layers of apple and citrus fruits with loads of savory accents, framed by refreshing acidity and a seductively oily texture, finishing on a lingering honey-nut note.

94-96pt Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Advocate

 

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