Rieussec "R" Bordeaux Blanc Sec 2018

93 points Jane Anson (Decanter): "This is extremely good quality. It's a delicious wine full of flavour, bright and crystalline with a beautifully crisp colour and more Sauvignon Blanc than usual. The harvest was spread out over three weeks because earlier hail had meant uneven ripening. It took place between 29 August and 21 September. Drinking Window: 2022-2038. (Apr 2019)"

91-92 points James Suckling: "A tangy and dry white wine with sliced apples, lemons and light honey character. Medium body. Melon flavor. Lemon undertones. (4/11/19)"

90-92 points Lisa Perrotti-Brown (Wine Advocate): "The 2018 R de Rieussec is composed of 58% Sémillon and 42% Sauvignon Blanc. It opens with notes of honey-drizzled apples, spiced pears and melon with touches of yuzu zest and white pepper. The palate is charged with vibrant citrus fruits and a wicked backbone of freshness, finishing long and mineral laced. (Apr 2019)"

Here is a real rarity in the wine market -- a dry Sauternes. Most of this wine stays in Europe, so not many people here are even aware that it exists. Consequently, it can still be had at an incredible bargain. Made from equal proportions of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, the "R" de Rieussec is made only in vintages when weather permits. Harvesters must carefully select out only those berries not infected by botrytis. The resulting wine is at once rich and crisp, with notes of peach and honeysuckle. While enjoyable now, it will continue to improve with age.