Wander around the lush vineyards on the right bank of Bordeaux and explore the sweet wines of this region
The vineyards of Sauternes are crossed by the Ciron, which is a small river tributary of the Garonne. The almost magical combination of the heat and humidity of this river favors the development of a bacterium, Botrytis cinerea. It is this mushroom that forms what is called noble rot, especially suitable for the Semillon grape variety. This mushroom concentrates the sugars of the grape and gives Sauternes wines this particular candied fruit aroma.
At the first go, the eye is immediately drawn to the brilliant golden color of the wine. Exuberant, the nose spreads an incomparable aromatic range: dried apricot, currants, gingerbread, marmalade, honey, flowers, beeswax, oriental spices along with a complex mouth which will be soft, very full and harmonious.
Wineries in Sauternes will help you discover these amazing wines with curated wine tasting and food pairing sessions. You can learn a lot more about the rich heritage and wine making tradition of this region by enjoying a guided wine tour through the property and wine cellars of the wineries in Sauternes.
Choose from one of our member wineries or contact our local travel expert to book yourself an exclusive wine vacation in the beautiful wine region of Sauternes!
Sauternes wines are 80% Semillon, Sauvignon and some Muscadelle. To bear the name of Sauternes or Barsac the wines must have been produced with vines at the maximum yield of 25 hectoliters per hectare and must have been harvested by hand.
Sauternes is a lusciously sweet and botrytized white wine from the Bordeaux region of France, known for its rich flavors, complex aromas, and golden hue. When it comes to pairing food with Sauternes, there are several classic options that can enhance the experience:
Foie Gras: This classic is a match made in heaven. The creamy texture of foie gras complements the sweetness and complexity of Sauternes, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Blue Cheese: The intense flavors and creamy texture of blue cheese beautifully with the sweetness and acidity. The contrast between the salty, tangy cheese and the honeyed notes of the wine creates a delightful flavor combination.
Desserts: Sauternes is often enjoyed as a dessert wine and pairs well with a variety of sweet treats. Try it with fruit-based desserts like peach cobbler or pineapple upside-down cake, or with creamy desserts like crème brûlée or vanilla panna cotta.
Spicy Cuisine: The sweetness can help offset the heat of spicy dishes, making it a great matching for spicy Asian or Indian cuisine. Try it with dishes like Thai curry or Indian vindaloo for a delicious contrast of flavors.
Pâté: Like foie gras, pâté. The rich, savory flavors of pâté are beautifully complemented by the sweetness and acidity of the wine, making it a perfect match for a gourmet appetizer.
Fresh Fruit: Sauternes fits wonderfully with fresh fruit, especially mango, pineapple, and papaya. The sweetness of the wine enhances the natural sweetness, creating a refreshing and indulgent combining.
The duration of wine tours in Sauternes can vary depending on the specific itinerary and preferences of the participants. However, typical wine tours in the region often last between 2 to 4 hours.
During this time, participants usually visit one or more wineries to learn about the winemaking process, explore the vineyards, and learn to know a selection of wines, including Sauternes and other varieties produced in the region. Some tours may also include additional activities such as cellar tours, food pairings, or visits to local landmarks.
The Sauternes area is located about 50 km southwest of the city of Bordeaux on the left bank of the Garonne. The vineyards of Barsac and Sauternes together form the Sauternes. On an area of 900 ha for Barsac and 1,400 ha for Sauternes, the average total production is nearly 35,000 hl/year. The Sauternes appellation includes 5 communes: Sauternes, Fargues, Preignac, Bommes and Barsac. Although Barsac has its own appellation, and the winemakers can choose to put their harvest under the name of Sauternes or Barsac.
The vineyards are crossed by the Ciron, which is a small river tributary of the Garonne. The almost magical combination of the heat and humidity of this river favors the development of a bacterium, Botrytis cinerea. It is this mushroom that forms what is called noble rot, especially suitable for the Semillon grape variety. This mushroom concentrates the sugars of the grape and gives this particular candied fruit aroma.
This gives it a characteristic taste and aroma that has made it popular all over the world. You can discover this distinct product on an exclusive tour in Sauternes. Walk around the vineyards, visit the finest cellars and indulge in curated wine tasting.
Choose from one of our exclusive member wineries or contact our local travel expert to book yourself an amazing wine tour in Sauternes!
