2018 Rayne Vigneau
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Tasting notes
Now this has real class! Both sweet and savoury with proper structure and length. Actually quite thrilling after having tasted lesser 2018 sweet white bordeaux. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
The 2018 Château de Rayne-Vigneau is just missing a little intensity on the nose compared to its peers; even leaving it aside to open, it remains recalcitrant. The palate is much more expressive, offering orange pith, apricot, mango and a touch of wild honey. Nicely proportioned on the finish, although it needs 3–4 years to subsume the oak and for the aromatics to get their act together.
76% Sémillon, 24% Sauvignon Blanc, a hint of Muscadelle. Deeper gold than many. Surprisingly restrained on the nose: honey citrus and apricot. Rich and gorgeously fresh and silky on the palate, packed with ripe lemon and apricot. Deep, rich, viscous, and still fresh on the finish. (JH)
About the producer
The 1855 classification placed Ch. de Rayne Vigneau just behind Ch. d’Yquem – also a nearby neighbour. Its 84-hectare vineyard sits in a single block on gravel mounds, overlooking the Ciron in Sauternes, and producing impressive sweet wines.