2025 Rieussec (Sauternes)

The 2025 Rieussec has around 150 g/l residual sugar this year and was picked from around mid-September, with either three or four tries depending on the parcel. It is no longer matured entirely in new barrels, so this vintage includes 70-80% new oak, with some larger 500-litre barrels. It has a very pure bouquet, with saffron, wild honey and light apricot scents, and is very focused and delineated. The palate is very fresh on the entry, which counterbalances the pure botrytised fruit. Just a hint of toffee apple in the background, long and tender on the finish. Excellent. 92-94 points