Chateau Rieussec   Rieussec

1997 Rieussec

By Chateau Rieussec

1997 Rieussec from Chateau Rieussec, Sauternes, Bordeaux

Embarking on an exquisite trip down memory lane, one that traverses the rich tapestry of Bordeaux's sweet wine legacy, the 1997 Rieussec from Chateau Rieussec emerges as a stellar beacon of this heralded year. My lifelong affair with the botrytized beauties of Sauternes affords a deep appreciation for vintages that truly capture the essence of this noble terroir.

 

Abundant Harvests: The Essence of '97

The 1997 vintage was a year where nature seemed to favour the sweet wine artisans of Bordeaux, delivering conditions conducive to the development of noble rot. The 1997 Rieussec exemplifies the sumptuous harmony attained when elements align with vintner artistry. This is a vintage that lures investors with its balance and sophistication—attributes that suggest longevity and potential for accretion in value.

 

A Connoisseur's Delight

In the glass, this Sauternes shows a gloriously deep golden hue, as if capturing the very sunbeams that nourished its grapes. The olfactory journey commences with opulent aromas of candied apricot and honey-soaked fig, bespeaking the indulgent concentration accomplished that year. Waves of warm baking spices and toasted almond ensue, laying testament to the careful aging process that has majestically evolved over time.

On the palate, one may perceive an intricate dance between vivacious acidity and luscious sweetness—a hallmark of resilience in fine sweet wines. As this Sauternes dallies on the tongue, it unfurls layers of marmalade entwined with zestful citrus notes, a signature reflective of the 1997 harvest's grace and charitable weather dictates.

The finish is protracted with elegance, leaving traces of saffron and vanilla that echo in a serene, contented aftermath; a tasting experience befitting solicitous contemplation and musing upon the storied history of Sauternes.

 

The Investment Perspective

Name recognition alone substantiates Chateau Rieussec as an estimable name in investment circles. But it's the illustrious charm and composed structure of the 1997 Rieussec that unequivocally distinguish it as one to watch—and indeed, collect—for seasoned enthusiasts and judicious investors alike. A remarkable specimen from an extraordinary vintage, this offering from Chateau Rieussec is poised for contemplation as much as it is for delectation—an embodiment of vinous virtuosity that will undoubtedly augment any connoisseur's cellar or portfolio.

Current market price

£640.00

12x75cl

Highest score

91

POP score

58.18

Scores and tasting notes

91

This wine contains an extremely high percentage of Semillon (usually about 90%), which was to its benefit in 1997. The wine is light medium gold-colored, with a blockbuster nose of Grand Marnier liqueur intertwined with flower blossoms, smoky new oak, and coconut. Well-integrated wood has resulted in a seamless, full-bodied, unctuously-textured wine with considerable sweetness. This is a stunningly proportioned, beautifully pure wine. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2025. (No tasting note was provided in Issue 128. We have instead included the text of the tasting note from Issue 122)

Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 20 April 2000

90

A slightly deeper hue than the 2001. This is a very distinctive nose, a little oxidative, burnt sugar, marmalade and a touch of caramel. The palate is full-bodied, slightly lower in acidity compared to the 1990. Fat, unctuous to the point of almost being cloying. At the mid-palate it loses its way a little, losing focus, a touch of warm alcohol. A little out of sorts so I would like to retaste this. Tasted November 2006.

Neal Martin - Wine Journal Dec 2007

Vintage performance