American critic Robert Parker described this Rieussec as a monumental effort. He says that the 2001 boasts a light to medium gold color in addition to a fabulous perfume of honeysuckle, smoky oak, caramelized tropical fruits, creme brulee, and Grand Marnier. The wine is massive and full-bodied yet neither over the top nor heavy because of good acidity. With intense botrytis as well as a 70-75-second finish, this amazing Sauternes will be its apogee between 2010-2035.

Renowned critic James suckling likened the 2001 to lemon curd on the nose, turning to honey and caramel. Full-bodied and very sweet, with fantastic concentration of ripe and botrytized fruit, yet balanced and refined. Electric acidity. Lasts for minutes on the palate. This is absolutely mind-blowing. This is the greatest young Sauternes I have ever tasted.

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Food Pairing:

Roequfort cheese, Foie gras, Apple Pie, Lemon cheesecake.

For those slightly more daring, pair with your favourite oysters.