Carmes de Rieussec 2012

The floral intensity and balance of a Sauternes Second Wine

The estate

Château Rieussec is located in the prestigious Sauternes appellation, in the south of the Bordeaux region. This château is steeped in history and belonged to the Carmelite monks of Langon in the 18th century. It was then sold as "National Property" following the French Revolution. Classified as an 1855 Sauternes Premier Grand Cru, Château Rieussec was acquired by the Rothschild family in 1984.

The vineyard

The estate’s Second Wine, Carmes de Rieussec, is a Sauternes wine that stems from a sandy-clay gravel terroir. The vineyard of Château Rieussec is situated on the border between Fargues and Sauternes and covers 93 hectares, thus making it one of the largest estates in the appellation.

The vintage

2012 was a year marked by difficult weather conditions. The hailstorm on April 24th preceded a late (June 10th) and uneven flowering period, which had a significant impact on yields. The alternation between heat and humidity during the months of June and July enhanced the vineyard’s disease pressure. The very uneven maturities meant that drastic decisions has to be made during the harvest. Despite the commitment shown by the estate’s team, the First Wine (Château Rieussec) could not be produced in this vintage.

Vinification and ageing

50% of the wine is vinified in vats and 50% in first-fill barrels. The 18-month ageing period is carried out in used barrels from the Domaines Barons de Rothschild cooperage.

The blend

Semillon (87%)
Sauvignon Blanc (10%)
Muscadelle (3%).

Carmes de Rieussec 2012: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Nose
The nose exudes notes of white flowers, acacia and honeysuckle.

Palate
The mouth opens with honeyed notes. Optimal balance is maintained throughout the tasting experience and leads to a lively and persistent finish.

Service

For an optimal tasting experience, serve between 8 and 10°C.