"R" de Rieussec Bordeaux Blanc Sec 2021
"R" de Rieussec is a dry white wine produced at the Grand Cru estate of Château Rieussec in the Bordeaux appellation of Sauternes. "R" de Rieussec was originally produced for consumption within the Rothschild family; however, the improving quality of this wine, coupled with fashion dictating a drier style meant that it was thankfully released to the general public. Global warming, and the capricious nature of noble rot (the fungus that creates the luscious wines of Sauternes) have forced producers in Sauternes to focus their attentions on the production of dry wines and "R" de Rieussec is one of the finest examples of this modern style. The wine is an almost equal blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, of which 20% is barrel fermented. There are lovely aromas of citrus and passion fruit and well integrated notes of oak. 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 use of oak barrels.
