Chateau Rieussec   Rieussec

1990 Rieussec

By Chateau Rieussec

1990 Rieussec from Chateau Rieussec, Sauternes, Bordeaux

The 1990 vintage is one of those exceptional junctures in the storied history of Château Rieussec. I recall approaching this vintage with considerable anticipation, aware of the propitious growing conditions that set the stage for a remarkable harvest in Sauternes.

 

Alluring Alchemy of the 1990 Vintage

It is well-acknowledged that Sauternes relies on nature’s whims to steward its grapes towards its famed noble rot. The 1990 season offered an abundance of sun-blessed days and misty mornings conducive for Botrytis cinerea’s alchemical touch. The result: a concentrated nectar that has left an indelible impression upon my palate.

The splendid equipoise achieved by the 1990 Rieussec is noteworthy. An exquisite marriage of opulent apricot, honeycomb and gingerbread notes are sequenced harmoniously with a vitality which, even after these years, denotes only a genteel approach to maturity. Its texture a silken brocade; it cascades across the taste receptors with dignity and grace.

 

A Connoisseur’s Investment

The resplendence of the 1990 Rieussec renders it as one of the more illustrious investments for those inclined to the sweet spectrum of Bordeaux's outputs. With ageing potential that promises further complexity, this nectar offers more than just hedonistic pleasure; it is a liquid asset with discernible appreciation over time.

Precision in acidity tempers the sweetness, bestowing balance upon this wine’s profile—a testament to the winemaking prowess at Chateau Rieussec and the unique terroir they work upon.

To partake in 1990 Rieussec is not just to sip wine, but to imbibe history, artistry, and nature’s serendipity. It would resonate most soundly with collectors and investors who understand that wines such as these are cultivated chapters of liquid lore—not merely beverages but time capsules awaiting reverence in every glass.

Current market price

£670.00

12x75cl

Highest score

90

POP score

67

Scores and tasting notes

90

The 1990 was more precocious and flattering than the more highly rated 1988 and 1989, with its tropical fruit-scented nose, big, spicy, rich, high alcohol flavors, and a fine underpinning of acidity giving everything clarity and crispness. It will be drinkable at an earlier age than the 1989, but it will last just as long.

Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate - Wine Journal

90

The 1990 was precocious and flattering, with its tropical fruit-scented nose, big, spicy, rich, high alcohol flavors, and a fine underpinning of acidity giving everything clarity and crispness. The 1990 will be drinkable at an earlier age than the 1989, but it will last just as long. Anticipated maturity: Now-2020. Last tasted 11/94

Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 31 December 1997

Vintage performance