Chateau Rieussec, 1975 Sweet Wine
Sauternes 1er Grand Cru Classe
Sweet White Wine
Bottle size: 75cl
ABV: 14%

Price:
£149.00
Description
Discover the refined beauty of the 1975 Château Rieussec, a Premier Grand Cru Classé Sauternes that captures the essence of a remarkable vintage. Nearly five decades since harvest, this exceptional wine continues to evolve with grace, offering a rare glimpse into the timeless craftsmanship of one of Sauternes’ most respected estates. Its glowing amber hue immediately signals the luxurious experience waiting in each glass, while its rarity makes it a true treasure for collectors and connoisseurs alike.
On the nose, the 1975 Château Rieussec unfolds with a mesmerizing array of aromas. Layers of honey, dried apricot, orange marmalade, and candied pineapple mingle beautifully with deeper notes of saffron, toasted nuts, and caramelized sugar. As it opens, hints of beeswax and exotic spices emerge, revealing a perfume that is at once rich, complex, and endlessly inviting. Each swirl reveals new subtleties, making it a captivating experience from the first encounter to the last lingering scent.
The palate is equally enchanting, delivering a sumptuous, velvety texture balanced by a lively backbone of acidity that keeps the sweetness vibrant and fresh. Flavors of ripe stone fruit, citrus peel, and toffee glide effortlessly across the tongue, joined by hints of vanilla and gentle spice. The finish is long and opulent, leaving a memorable impression of honeyed richness and elegant depth. Even after so many years, this wine maintains remarkable energy and purity, a testament to its extraordinary pedigree.
To fully appreciate its character, serve the 1975 Château Rieussec lightly chilled, around 12–14 °C (54–57 °F). Decanting for about 30 minutes can help awaken its most delicate layers and enhance the aromatic complexity. It shines alongside classic pairings like foie gras, creamy blue cheeses such as Roquefort, or nut-based desserts like walnut tart. For an adventurous twist, try it with spicy Asian dishes or glazed duck, where the wine’s sweetness and acidity create a harmonious, unforgettable match.
Owning a bottle of 1975 Château Rieussec is more than simply adding another wine to your collection—it is an invitation to savor a piece of Sauternes history. With its exceptional balance of richness, freshness, and layered complexity, this wine stands as a shining example of the region’s legendary aging potential. Rarely available and increasingly sought-after, it offers a luxurious experience and a story worth sharing for years to come.
Château Rieussec, located in the Sauternes appellation of Bordeaux, France, is renowned for its prestigious history and exceptional sweet wines. With a heritage dating back to the 18th century, the estate's vineyards cover approximately 90 hectares, primarily planted with Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle grapes affected by noble rot. Benefitting from gravelly and clay-limestone soils, Château Rieussec crafts wines that embody the elegance and complexity of Sauternes terroir. Known for their richness, sweetness, and vibrant acidity, the estate's wines exhibit luscious fruit flavors, honeyed notes, and a distinct botrytis character. Classified as a Premier Cru Classé in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, Château Rieussec continues to uphold its legacy of excellence under the ownership of Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite). With a dedication to tradition and innovation, the estate remains a benchmark for fine Sauternes wines, captivating enthusiasts worldwide with its distinguished blends.
Condition
Top shoulder level, good label
Reviews
** Robert Parker 90 Points **
Still remarkably youthful looking, and slow to evolve, this is a powerful, concentrated, and rich Sauternes, with decades of life ahead of it. Lemon, tropical fruit, and vanillin oaky aromas titillate the olfactory glands. Tight, yet rich, full-bodied flavors reveal marvelous balance and richness. It is aging at a snail's pace.