Rieussec Mini-Vertical

A side-by-side comparison of the 2004 and 1999 Rieussec at home. The 1999 was worlds better... better quality and at a better phase in its evolution. The 2004 was enjoyable, but lacked enough stuffing and was also still too young (2 years after the last time I had tasted it... may need to wait another 3-5 years before tasting again). The 1999 is a value right now... just excellent.

• 1999 Château Rieussec 92 Points

  France, Bordeaux, Sauternais, Sauternes

  From a 375. Medium golden-copper color; mature nose with honey, caramel, butterscotch, medium intensity; palate is full bodied, rich, sweet, concentrated citrus orange, balanced acidity, flavor has dense intensity at first and lightens through the midpalate; finish is medium length. This is a classic Rieussec (rich but balanced throughout) solidly in early maturity (has mature notes but still with its youthful sweetness and fruit on the palate) and of very good quality but lacking the depth and complexity of flavors of superb vintages. Will last for at least 1-2 more decades, but delicious for drinking now. 91-92
  Day 2 and 3: Consistent with initial notes above. Very enjoyable.

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• 2004 Château Rieussec 88 Points

  France, Bordeaux, Sauternais, Sauternes

  From a 375. Light golden color; moderate intensity nose with wax, vanilla, some baking spice with swirling, a bit of pineapple; palate is full bodied, moderate sweetness, decent acidity at front of palate, early fruit is difficult to pin down, and it fades towards a slightly hollow midpalate; short-moderate finish. This is enjoyable by itself, but 1) is too young by 5 years, 2) lacks persistence on the palate, 3) seems short on the fruit, 4) has oak that is quite pronounced. Certainly falters compared to the 1999 Rieussec beside it, but I'm hopeful that 5 years will show some improvement (though factors going against that include lack of persistence on the palate and high oak/fruit ratio). I have a few left, and will try my next one in 5 years. 88
  Day 2: Consistent with initial notes above.

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