2016 Ch Rieussec 1er Cru 375ml Half Bottle, Sauternes

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

Lots of botrytis here in addition to dried mushrooms and dried fruit such as pineapple and peaches. Medium to full body. Medium sweet. Very long and intense. A triumph.
 
98-99 points James Suckling jamessuckling.com

 Pale lemon colored, the 2016 Rieussec comes sashaying out of the glass with a beautiful floral and citrus perfume of orange blossom, pink grapefruit, yuzu, lime leaves, lemongrass and fallen leaves with hints of nutmeg and candied ginger. Having shed a lot of the puppy fat from when I last tasted this from barrel, the palate reveals loads of elegant, tightly wound layers and seamless freshness, finishing long and fragrant. Drink 2021-2050
 
96+ points Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW robertparker.com March 2019

Château Rieussec has been one of the great names of Sauternes since the eighteenth century, with the estate earning First Growth status in the famous 1855 Classification. Today the property forms part of Domaines Barons de Rothschild Lafite, where meticulous vineyard work and patient winemaking continue to produce some of Bordeaux's most celebrated sweet wines.

The vineyards sit on gravel, clay and sandy soils near Fargues, perfectly positioned to benefit from the autumn mists that drift from the Ciron and Garonne rivers. These conditions encourage the development of noble rot, concentrating flavours and sugars while preserving freshness and complexity. The outstanding 2016 vintage delivered beautifully balanced Sauternes with both richness and precision.

The colour is a radiant deep gold. Aromas of apricot, marmalade and pineapple unfold alongside acacia honey, saffron and orange blossom. The palate is luscious yet wonderfully poised, layering tropical fruit and citrus marmalade over vibrant acidity that keeps the wine fresh and energetic. Notes of crème brûlée, ginger and spice emerge on the long, luxurious finish.

Magnificent with foie gras, Roquefort, tarte tatin, peach frangipane or simply enjoyed on its own as a decadent end to the evening. The half bottle format is ideal for sharing and the wine will continue to evolve beautifully for decades to come.