Château Rieussec 2023

Fresh, expressive, lemon confit, pineapple, citrus, herbs; creamy palate, rich yet fresh, very good acidity, long finish on apricot, preserved lemon and almond blossoms.

For the pedigree, a disappointing sample that conveys richness to be sure—with delectable apricot and other white stone fruit aromas and flavours, along with botrytis spice—but it could use more balancing vibrancy. The sample I tried seems a bit stationary, lacking the verve from the top Sauternes. With 148 grams of residual sugar per litre.

The 2023 Rieussec is delicate and light on its feet. White flowers, apple tart, passion fruit and tropical citrus tones are nicely lifted. The 2023 is very much done in a modern style that prizes freshness and mid-weight structure over opulence. I find it quite delicate and very pretty, but also a work in progress.

Score: 91–93. The freshness of pine sap and eucalyptus, heather honey, chamomile, and Victoria pineapple contribute to a rounded nose that retains freshness with saline accents. The unctuous palate is all honey, blood orange peel, and peach compote. The finish is brightened by mentholated notes.

Rieussec 2023 reveals itself with subtlety, gradually unfolding through floral nuances and citrus notes. It shows aromas of clementine, fresh pineapple and white-fleshed fruits such as pear. Dense and suave on the attack, the wine is pure and linear, carried by a structuring—even incisive—acidity that pairs with fine bitterness. The latter reinforces the power, but also the wine’s linear, even mouthwatering character. A harmonious Rieussec in which every element helps energize the whole. It will certainly be enjoyable in its youth, which is precious… as is its ability to age through the decades ahead! A wine that brings people together, sure to delight both long-time fans and newcomers alike!

An extremely serious wine, yet already very approachable. Cream, pineapple, honeyed apricots, mangoes, wax and a hint of white mushrooms on the nose. Impeccable balance between fruit and botrytis complexity. Luscious yet supple, with a round, full body and an extremely long finish. Subtle cream comes up at the end. Newly designed bottle. Already delicious, but can hold for decades.

Following the bouquet of flowers that greets your nose, you are treated to an array of honey-topped tropical fruits, vanilla, honeysuckle, and apricots. The bright, vibrant palate is filled with fresh, sweet, almost unctuous fruits with accents of oranges, tangerines, and spice, all backed by racy acidities. Drink from 2028-2055.

Exceptional. Velvety, vibrant exotic fruits, pineapple, mango, white nectarine, satsuma rind, grated ginger and bitter orange marmalade at the finish.

Sunny yellow color. A highly aromatic nose with ripe, smooth fruit, turning spicy when the glass is swirled. Broad on the attack and subtle through the mid-palate, with a classy texture, the wine develops with finesse and a melting mouthfeel. It finishes fragrant and long, with great precision. A sophisticated and delicious whole.