2010 Ch Rieussec 1er Cru Half Bottle 375ml, Sauternes

Pale to medium lemon-gold in color, the 2010 Rieussec is evolving at a good clip, boasting roasted nuts, toffee apples and dried apricots scents with hints of beurre blanc, manuka honey and candle wax. The palate is a powerhouse of sweetness, with soft acidity and loads of savory/nutty layers, finishing on a praline note.

90 points Lisa Perrotti-Brown robertparker.com Mar 2020 Drink 2020-2032

90 to 95% Sémillon, 5 to 10% Muscadelle and Sauvignon.

Château Rieussec Premier Cru from Sauternes is one of the crown jewels of Bordeaux’s sweet wine tradition, sitting proudly alongside the legendary names of the region. Owned by Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite), the estate has built a reputation for producing Sauternes of extraordinary richness, balance and longevity — wines that are both opulent and beautifully poised.

The vineyards are located on a prime plateau in Fargues, adjacent to Château d’Yquem, where gravelly clay soils over limestone provide superb drainage and reflect heat to the vines. The blend is typically dominated by Sémillon, with smaller portions of Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle. Autumn mists from the nearby Ciron and Garonne rivers encourage the development of Botrytis cinerea (noble rot), which concentrates sugars and flavours while preserving natural acidity. Grapes are hand harvested in multiple passes to ensure only perfectly botrytised fruit is selected, then fermented and matured for around 18 to 24 months in French oak barrels, part new.

In the glass it glows a deep golden hue with amber reflections. The aroma is intoxicating and layered, showing apricot, honey, orange peel, pineapple and saffron interwoven with hints of vanilla, almond and crème brûlée. The palate is luxurious yet precise, offering luscious fruit framed by bright acidity and a subtle mineral thread. The finish is endless, resonating with notes of candied citrus and spice.

It pairs beautifully with foie gras, blue cheese, fruit tarts, or desserts with honey and almond. It’s also superb alongside spicy Asian dishes or simply enjoyed on its own as a contemplative wine. With careful cellaring, Château Rieussec can age gracefully for half a century, developing layers of caramel, truffle and toasted nuts while retaining its vibrant sweetness.