Viniou Reviews
Château Rayne Vigneau 2017 is a dazzling Sauternes wine renowned for its luxurious sweetness and complexity. As a premier representative of the Sauternais sub-region, this wine is crafted from a blend of predominantly Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc grapes. The 2017 vintage benefits from a particularly favourable year, offering a superb balance of ripe fruit and vibrant acidity. The terroir of Rayne Vigneau is distinguished by its gravelly and clay-limestone soils that confer a unique minerality and depth to the wine. The wine undergoes meticulous vinification, including hand harvesting of grapes affected by the noble rot, Botrytis cinerea, which concentrates the sugar and flavours.
Sauternes, located in the wider Bordeaux region, enjoys a mild maritime climate with warm, humid conditions that are ideal for the development of noble rot. The region's unique microclimate, influenced by the nearby Ciron and Garonne rivers, adds layers of nuance to its wines. Sauternes has a storied history going back centuries, earning its reputation for producing some of the world’s finest dessert wines.
This opulent wine pairs beautifully with rich and savoury dishes. Classic pairings include foie gras, where the wine’s sweetness counterbalances the rich, buttery flavours. Blue cheeses such as Roquefort or Stilton also harmonise beautifully, their sharpness mellowed by the wine's honeyed notes. Many enjoy Sauternes with desserts like tarte tatin or crème brûlée, where the caramel and tropical fruit nuances shine through. To add a local touch, try pairing it with a Gascon apple tart.
For optimal enjoyment, Château Rayne Vigneau 2017 should be served well-chilled, at a temperature of 10-12°C. This allows the wine's complex aromas of apricot, citrus, and honey to unfurl gracefully, providing a refreshing yet indulgent tasting experience.
