The second wine of Chateau Rieussec Carmes de Rieussec is selected according to the same standards as the first wine. Its constant feature is centred on a fine aromatic structure dominated by citrus aromas. The name, Carmes de Rieussec, relates to the monks of the Carmes de Langon, who were owners of the Rieussec estate in the 18th century.

A blend of Semillon 85%, Sauvignon Blanc 10% and a little Muscadelle 5% this wine has spent 18 months in barrel. This is an intense golden yellow coloured wine that is showing preserved fruit on the nose, with hints of apricot. The nose develops on the palate as the range of flavours deliver a harmonious well-rounded first impression. In the 18th century, the Rieussec estate belonged to the Carmes de Langon monks. The confiscation of the estate during the revolution led to its public sale around 1790 as an 'object of national heritage' to Mr. Marheilhac, the period’s owner of Château La Louvière at Leognan.

For the 1855 classification, M. Mayne was the owner of the estate. The quality of the Rieussec soil earned its ranking as a first growth Sauternes and Barsac. After that date, Rieussec’s history involves many change of owners. Acquired by Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) in 1984 the estate then included 110 hectares of which 68 hectares were vineyards. To enhance Chateau Rieussec’s potential, stern measures were implemented, including meticulous sorting of seeds and fermenting in barrels, which provides a superior selection for blending fine wines as well as a new chai being built to extend ageing in barrels. Winery Notes