Chateau Rieussec Carmes de Rieussec Sauternes 2019 (375ml)

The second wine of the legendary Château Rieussec, Carmes de Rieussec takes its name from the Carmelite monks of Langon who once owned the estate. Made from the same grand cru selection process as the grand vin, 2019 was a demanding vintage — a hailstorm early on, then a long wait for botrytis to arrive, with picking not starting in earnest until late October.

Golden and intensely aromatic, it shows dried apricot, fig and a touch of mint, with toasted oak adding roundness. Balanced acidity keeps the sweetness in check, finishing with a signature flinty, mineral edge.

Tasting notes: Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Muscadelle. Golden; dried apricot and fig; balanced sweetness with a mineral finish.

Food pairing: Foie gras, blue cheese, or a fruit-based dessert.