When one thinks of great sweet white wines, the Sauternes appellation is undoubtedly one of the most prestigious. How can one not be amazed when tasting this legendary white wine, which spans the ages and whose mythical cuvées, led by Château Yquem, are sought after worldwide at gold prices? Discover through this guide the history, terroir, and grape varieties of the wines from the AOC Sauternes appellation. Follow all our advice for achieving the best food and wine pairings with Sauternes sweet white wine.
History of the Sauternes Vineyard
While vines have been cultivated in the Bordeaux region since the end of the Roman Empire, it was in the Middle Ages that the Sauternes and Barsac vineyards were born. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that Sauternes wines began to flourish. Indeed, it was thanks to Dutch merchants who brought a new technique allowing fermentation to be stopped with sulfur to preserve residual sugar in the wine. A few years later, the discovery of the benefits of noble rot, which enriches Sauternes wines with characteristic "roasted" aromas, brought fame to the Sauternes and Barsac vineyards. They are also the only white wines from Bordeaux to have been classified in 1855. Furthermore, it's the Bordeaux vineyard with the most classified growths in 1855: with 27 grand crus, representing nearly 40% of the properties in Sauternes! Today, AOC Sauternes sweet white wines continue to shine this appellation worldwide.
Climate and Terroir of the AOC Sauternes Appellation
- Climate: Like in the entire Bordeaux region, the climate of Sauternes is oceanic but benefits from a unique local climate thanks to the Ciron, a small tributary of the Garonne River. Indeed, its cold water brings humidity that causes morning mists in autumn. This phenomenon promotes the development of Botrytis cinerea, also known as noble rot.
- Soils: Sauternes benefits from soil composed mainly of gravel and sand on a clay-limestone subsoil.
Classified Growths:
The appellation has 15 classified second growths, 11 First Growth Classifieds (including Château Rieussec, Château Rabaud-Promis, Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey, Château Guiraud, etc.), and 1 Superior First Growth Classified: the legendary Château Yquem.
Main Grape Varieties of the AOC Sauternes Appellation
The AOC Sauternes appellation produces sweet white wine from a blend of Sémillon (majority), Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle.
- Sémillon: This indispensable white grape variety of Bordeaux white wines is crucial for blending Sauternes wines due to its ability to develop noble rot, highly sought after. It brings notes of vanilla, yellow fruits, butter, and honey and adds power and complexity to blends.
- Sauvignon Blanc: This white grape variety, mainly present in the Loire Valley and Bordeaux, is known for its citrus, boxwood, fresh herbs, and elderflower aromas. It contributes fruity and tender characteristics to Sauternes wine blends.
- Muscadelle: This rare and rarely vinified white grape variety is used in small quantities in the blending of sweet white wines from Bordeaux and the Southwest. In AOC Sauternes wines, it brings notes of candied fruits, flowers, musk, and a silky sensation on the palate.
Style of Sauternes Wines
- Appearance: Sauternes white wine is characterized by a deep golden color that turns to amber hues with age.
- Nose: AOC Sauternes white wine develops intense aromas of candied fruits (quince, apricot, peach, orange), exotic fruits (mango, pineapple, passion fruit), and dried fruits (almond, hazelnut). The characteristic "roasted" taste of noble rot brings a unique aroma to Sauternes sweet white wines.
- Palate: Sauternes wine reveals a powerful, rich, and complex palate that lacks neither elegance nor finesse. The length on the palate is exceptional in the best cuvées.
Serving Temperature: 8°C - 11°C
Aging Potential: 5 years to over 50 years (for prestigious châteaux and good vintages).
Best Food Pairings with Sauternes
Here are some ideas for dishes to accompany a beautiful bottle of white sweet wine from a château in the AOC Sauternes for the appetizer:
- Duck foie gras
- Toast with Roquefort and walnuts
- Puff pastry with Fourme d'Ambert and figs
For continuing a food and wine pairing with a bottle from a château AOC Sauternes for the main course, dare to try:
- Roast chicken
- Poultry in cream sauce
- Honey-glazed duck
Finally, to pair a bottle of sweet white wine from a château AOC Sauternes with a dessert, turn to:
- Roasted and caramelized pineapple
- Crème brûlée
- Tarte Tatin
On Avenue des Vins, each bottle is selected with the utmost care, and the wines are delivered to your home directly by the domain or château of your choice. Let yourself be tempted by our sweet white wines in AOC Sauternes,
