Sauternes

Sauternes was my first stop when I arrived in the Bordeaux region this past summer. Driving from Gascony France which is about 1.5 hours south of Sauternes, this was a convenient stopping point on the way to Bordeaux city.

Before going to the tasting room at Château Suduiraut (mentioned later), I drove around for a while to get a feel of the place and see some of these beautiful estates…

Château de Fargues

Château de Malle

Chateâu Suduiraut was my destination for Sauternes tasting.  The famous estate dates back to 1580 and is surrounded by gardens designed by landscape architect André le Notre, the same architect who designed the gardens at Versailles.

Sauternes wine represents the sweeter side of Bordeaux, and while it is often referred to as a dessert wine, depending on the vintage Sauternes can also be paired with savory foods from entrées (appetizers) to main courses.

The Sauternais region has a unique climate that allows for a special fungus to grow called botrytis (known as noble rot).  Over time, the botrytis attacks the grape skins and creates a raisiny, lush and delicious sweet wine. Because of the unique growing conditions and also the very small production (1 vine = only 1 glass), Sauternes wine tend to be on the pricey side. The good news is that a bottle of Sauternes, even after being opened and with proper storage, will last you for a long time. If you haven’t had this wine before, try it with a paté, foie gras, or blue cheese. I promise it is heaven!!