2017 Les Carmes de Rieussec
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Tasting notes
Composed of 94% Semillon, 3% Sauvignon Blanc and 3% Muscadelle, the pale lemon-gold colored 2017 Carmes de Rieussec comes bounding out of the glass with rambunctious scents of candied citrus peel, pineapple tart, green mango and fresh apricots with hints of honeycomb, musk perfume and lime blossoms. The medium to full-bodied palate explodes with tropical and stone fruit flavors, offering seamless freshness and a long, honey-laced finish. Yum!
Critic scores
Average Score
Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, Wine Advocate
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2017 Carmes de Rieussec is dazzling. Here, too, the winemaking team captured a striking balance of richness and energy. Most second wines from Sauternes these days are light and floral. The Carmes has plenty of those qualities, but it is far from an easygoing Sauternes; rather it packs a serious punch. Lemon confit, passion fruit, exotic flowers and mint meld into the creamy, resonant finish.
A lovely second wine with cooked apples and peaches. Honey, too. Full-bodied, very sweet and bright.
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.