The 2002 Rayne-Vigneau has an attractive bouquet with subtle clear honey scents and a touch of peppermint. It shows great clarity for a Sauternes ‘02. The palate is well-balanced on the entry with nicely judged acidity. It is harmonious but not the most complex Sauternes of the vintage, yet it fans out toward the finish with delicate notes of creme caramel and a dash of spice. Drink now-2020+ Tasted April 2013.

Palish yellow. Highly aromatic nose of apricot,orange, spices and flowers. Smooth, lush and slightly high-toned, with gentle citrus fruits complemented by caramel and honey. Oak-drivenflavors of vanilla and grilled nuts on the finish. Not especially complex or gripping, but very accessible already.

Pale greenish gold. Light, Sauvignon-dominated nose on dramatically botrytis influenced fruit. A very impressive, if not the biggest, lightly opulent wine. Clean and neat and very pleasing. Lovely round texture. (JR)