Château Rieussec 1er Cru Classé, Sauternes, 2010

Rieussec 2010 occupies a different register from the opulent 2011: more structured, more precise, built on a foundation of exceptional botrytised concentration and the kind of acidity that ensures a long life in bottle. The nose shows honeyed stone fruit, orange zest, and warm pastry, with the toasted oak of barrel ageing beautifully integrated. The palate has a focused, tightly coiled quality, the sweetness and acidity in impeccable balance, the fruit concentrated without heaviness. Dried apricot, crème brûlée, and a distinctive mineral thread characterize the finish. A wine that is still finding itself and will continue to evolve for many years, growing more complex and profound with time.