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Sauternais

Written by Madeline Puckette

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Sweet wines from the Sauternais region of Bordeaux, made from Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle grapes affected by Botrytis cinerea (noble rot), which concentrates grape sugars and flavors.

Primary Flavors

  • Lemon Curd
  • Apricot
  • Quince
  • Honey
  • Ginger

Taste Profile

Very Sweet

Full Body

No Tannins

Medium-High Acidity

11.5–13.5% ABV

Handling

  • SERVE
    45–55°F / 7-12°C

  • GLASS TYPE
    Dessert

  • DECANT
    No

  • CELLAR
    10+ Years

Food Pairing

Excellent with wash-rind cheeses, where the wine’s sweetness balances the cheese’s savory funk. The most classic pairing is Roquefort.

Written byMadeline Puckette

James Beard Award-winning author and Wine Communicator of the Year. I co-founded Wine Folly to help people learn about wine. @WineFolly