Château Rieussec | Sauternes

The First Growth Sauternes property of Château Rieussec was acquired by Domaines Barons de Rothschild Lafite in 1984. Covering 93 hectares Château Rieussec is one of the largest properties in the region with vineyards that extend to the border of Fargues and Sauternes and adjoin those of Château d’Yquem.

For several generations it has been the leading name in Sauternes and, since purchasing the estate, Domaines Barons de Rothschild Lafite have implemented a number of measures to enhance Rieussec's potential. Extensive pruning and the sparing use of natural fertiliser helps keep production low. The techniques remain traditional and specific to the Sauternes region. In terms of yields, the traditional reference is that a single vine should produce a bottle of wine. Here, though, a single vine produces about a glass of wine. Traditional fermentation takes place in stainless steel vats and can last as long as two months. The wine is aged for 16 to 26 months in oak barrels, produced mostly at Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) cooperage and half are renewed each year. In 2000, renovations and new construction continued to represent the forward strides in quality implemented by Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite).

In addition to the iconic botrytis wines produced at Rieussec, a dry expression of the grapes is produced. R de Rieussec brings the same Sauvignon and Sémillon blend together but with a vibrant dry style suited to every occasion. Partly produced from the same vines as the Sauternes, 20% of fermentation takes place in barrels which enhances the wine’s potential to age, while preserving its freshness and the natural fruitiness from the grapes.