Château de Rayne Vigneau – Classified 1rst Great Growth

Sauternes AOC

Numerous generations have succeeded one another since the creation of the estate at the beginning of the XVIIth century by Gaillard Sauvage, sieur du Vigneau. As famous owners, we shall remember the de Pontac family, whose name is intimately linked to the birth of the great Bordeaux wines, and who acquired the estate in 1834. It’s under its reign that the Château de Rayne Vigneau achieved the much coveted rank of First Grand Cru of Sauternes during the famous 1855 classification.

Grape varieties:

80% Sémilion – 20% Sauvignon blanc

Vineyard:

The Rayne Vigneau vineyard is sitting upon a magnificent and unique hilltop dominating the Sauternes appellation, in the village of Bommes. The vineyard spread over 208 acres and vines are aged of 30 years and grow on a sandy gravel soil.

Winemaking:

Grapes are harvested over a period of few weeks. Then the fermentation takes place in a thermo regulated cellar. The wine is aged for 18 months in French oak barrels.

Tasting note:

The nose is extremely vivid, surprisingly characteristic of the sauvignon, of a great complexity. The palate is charming, precise, aerial, then takes its full dimension and offers a great tasting moment.

Food pairing:

As a traditional pairing this remarkable sweet wine will go along with fruit based desert but can also be paired with main courses such as pumpkin pie or an pesto beef tartar.

Rating:

Vintage 2014: 94-96 Points Wine Advocate

Vintage 2015: 93 Points Wine Spectator – 93-94 Points James Suckling – 93-95 Points Wine Advocate

Vintage 2016: 93-95 Points Wine Advocate