2016 Riverby Cyrene Semillon-Sauvignon Dessert Wine 375ml
Grape
75% Semillon and 25% Sauvignon Blanc (125 g residual sugar)
Its Origins
A major factor in Riverby’s success is the total control over all grape production on the single estate vineyard. A significant portion of the vineyard consists of vines with considerable age and this is complemented by slightly younger vines utilising modern clones. This combination of vine age and meticulous clonal selection is readily apparent in the high quality fruit being produced. Vines were first planted in 1989; on land that had previously been used for cropping and sheep farming. Further plantings have continued over the years, until now over 70 hectares are planted out in Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Pinot Gris, Semillon, and Syrah. The most recent planting is of Gruner Veltliner. As part of Riverby’s focus on viticultural excellence, yields are kept very low and several varieties are hand picked. Sustainable grape-growing techniques are practiced throughout the whole grape-growing and winemaking cycle.
What The Critics Say
95/100 WinePages.com, Tom Cannavan
"Riverby's take on classic Sauternes, this is 75% Semillon and 25% Sauvignon Blanc, with plenty of Botrytis and 14.0% alcohol. It spent 12 months in oak barrels, 50% new, and boasts 125g/l of luscious residual sugar. Flooded with apricot - fresh and dried - barley sugar and hints of bergamot/Earl Grey tea, the palate is slippery and viscous, a certain smokiness of mango and papaya, then a star-bright burst of lemon to the acidity. It is an extremely intense and powerful wine, that actually needs food; fully sweet desserts, foie gras or blue cheese, to stand up to the formidable power. This will age for many, many years."
5 Stars Michael Cooper
"Made exactly like Sauternes, the 2016 vintage (5*) is a 3:1 blend of Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc, matured for a year in oak barrels (50 per cent new). Amber-hued, with a strong botrytis influence, it has concentrated, ripe, peachy, honeyed flavours, abundant sweetness (125 grams/litre of residual sugar), finely balanced acidity, and a slightly oily richness. Lovely drinking now onwards."
93/100 Bob Campbell MW
"A successful imitation of Sauternes with honey, caramel, dried apricot, tropical fruits/guava and quince paste. A perfect accompaniment with blue cheese or foie gras. Made exactly like Sauternes - semillon 75%, sauvignon 25%, 12 months in oak, 50% new. 20 SEP 2022."
| Variety | Semillon |
|---|---|
| Region | Marlborough |
| Closure | Cap |
| Volume | 375ml |
| Alcohol | 14.00% |
| Maturity | 2020 - 2030 |
This Wine Goes Well With
Taste
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If for any reason you are not entirely happy with your order or you suspect that they may be affected by a quality issue, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will remedy the problem straight away. Contact us on 0800 422 767.
