Chateau Rieussec Premier Cru Classe, Sauternes 2008

The 2008 Rieussec is a blend of 86% Semillon, 12% Sauvignon Blanc and 2% Muscadelle picked from 29 September until 14 November over four or five pickings. The nose seemed to have closed down since I last encountered it in 2012, quite earthy and resinous, lacking some spark. The palate is much better with sour lemon and quince on the entry, a touch of patisserie, strangely making me think of Danish pastry towards the well-defined finish. This 2008 is a little difficult to work out at the moment, perhaps overwhelmed by the succeeding vintage. Tasted April 2016.

• Drinking Window: 2018 - 2038
• Reviewer Name: Neal Martin
• Review Date: January 2017