Château Rieussec Sauternes Grand Cru Classé 750ml 2011

Château Rieussec Sauternes is one of Bordeaux's most celebrated sweet wines, a Premier Cru Classé estate that ranks among the leading names of the Sauternes appellation.

Set on an elevated ridge in Fargues-de-Langon, within sight of Château d'Yquem, Rieussec's origins trace back to a community of Carmelite monks who first planted vines on the site. Since 1984 the estate has formed part of the Rothschild family's Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) portfolio, which has invested heavily in the vineyard and cellar while preserving its traditional character. The vines benefit from the same autumn mists off the Ciron and Garonne rivers that encourage noble rot across the appellation, and the wine is crafted from a classic Sauternes blend of Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle, hand-harvested across successive botrytis-affected passes through the vineyard.

This is a rich, luxurious dessert wine built for long cellaring, ideal alongside blue cheese, fruit tarts or foie gras, or simply savoured on its own.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.

Type: Dessert Wine
Style: Luscious, Grand Cru Classé
Grape Varietals: Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc
Tastes Like: Honeyed apricot, tropical fruit, delicate citrus zest, and a refined botrytis character
Alcohol Percentage: ~12% (approx.)
Closure: Cork
Size: 750mL
Appellation: Sauternes
Region: Bordeaux, France
Terroir: Rich, well-drained limestone and clay soils contributing to its concentrated, complex profile

Château Rieussec is a historic, family‐owned estate in Bordeaux renowned for its tradition of producing world-class Sauternes. With a commitment to sustainable viticulture and meticulous winemaking, the estate crafts wines that elegantly capture the noble, terroir‐driven character of Sauternes.

Desserts: Classic crème brûlée or a delicate fruit tart that mirrors its honeyed sweetness.
Cheese: Rich blue cheese or creamy goat cheese that contrast its vibrant sweetness.
Appetizers: Sweet and savory canapés featuring hints of citrus and spice to complement its complexity.

Blue Cheese: Bold and creamy, providing a striking counterpoint to its luscious texture.
Brie: Soft and buttery, enhancing its delicate fruity and floral nuances.
Goat Cheese: Fresh and tangy, offering a crisp counterbalance to its sweet, concentrated character.

Sauternes Poached Pears with Spiced Honey

Ingredients:

• 4 firm pears, peeled, halved, and cored
• 750 mL Château Rieussec Sauternes Grand Cru Classé 2016 (or another Sauternes)
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3 whole cloves
• 1 star anise
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, combine the Sauternes, honey, cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise, and lemon zest. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the pear halves and poach gently for 15–20 minutes, turning once, until the pears are tender yet retain their shape.
3. Remove the pears with a slotted spoon and set aside to cool slightly.
4. Increase the heat and reduce the poaching liquid until it thickens into a syrupy consistency, about 5–7 minutes. Discard the spices.
5. Drizzle the reduced sauce over the poached pears and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature as an elegant dessert paired with a chilled glass of Château Rieussec Sauternes Grand Cru Classé 750mL 2016 for a truly harmonious, terroir‐driven experience.