R de Rieussec, Bordeaux, France,White, 75cl

Description

Reviews: 2018 JAMES SUCKLING 91pts

Wine Producer: Domaines Barons De Rothschild

Country: France

Region: Bordeaux

Production Area: Sauternes

Grape Type: Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon

Colour: White

Average annual production: 2,000 to 3,000 cases.

Vineyard: Soil: Sandy-clay.

Wine – Making Process: Grapes are harvested by hand in small crates. They are refrigerated prior to being brought to the press, which helps prevent oxidation. The pressing is gentle in order to retain the aromatic freshness of the grapes. Once the must has settled, most of the semillon are placed in new oak barrels to undergo alcoholic fermentation, while the sauvignon is predominantly fermented in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks. Once fermentation is completed, the wine in barrel is kept on its lees for a period of six months with regular stirring, while the sauvignon are racked and left to age in the tanks to preserve their aromatic qualities.

Features: Very intense, complex nose. There are lovely aromas of citrus and passion fruit from the Bois plots, full of young Sauvignon Blanc vines growing on limestone marl. More mineral, smoky notes recall the scent of hot, moist gravel after a magnificent summer storm on the plateau. The palate is very smooth, underscored by an acidity that contributes to the wine’s length. There is excellent volume with a delicious touch of butter thanks to the ageing in barrels from Tonnellerie des Domaines (Lafite) cooperage. Notes of bergamot accompany the finish, which ends with a promising liveliness.

Pairings: Chicken salads, grilled fish, cream cheeses

Serving Temperature:10 °C-12°C

Actual Alcoholic Strength by Volume: 13% vol. (varies depending on vintage).

Allergens: Contains sulphites.