1976 Rieussec
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Tasting notes
Bright tawny. Strong, complex nose of caramel and burnt sugar. On the palate it tastes much more youthful, appetising and vibrant with a lovely creamy texture. As we have noted before here, Rieussec often darkens much more rapidly than most other Sauternes. No-one should be deterred by the dark colour of this wine. It still has a way to go. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
This is one of the most controversial vintages of Rieussec. Very dark gold in color, some observers have said it is oxidized and is falling apart. Despite the dark color, the remarkable taste seems to suggest that this wine has a way to go. The huge nose of toasted almonds, caramel, chocolate, and brown sugar does exhibit a trace of volatile acidity, so technocrats are likely to be turned off. Incredibly rich and full bodied, with a honeyed, luscious texture and extremely intense flavors, this exotic, hugely proportioned wine (15% alcohol) can only be served as a dessert. The yield at Rieussec in 1976 was 2.5 hectoliters per hectare, which is approximately one third of a glass of wine per vine. This is a bold, rather overblown style of Sauternes, but I love it. Anticipated maturity: Now-2005. Last tasted, 12/90.
About the producer
Ch. Rieussec is a top, Premier Cru Classé Sauternes estate that is part of the Domaines Barons de Rothschild stable, along with First Growth Ch. Lafite Rothschild.