What is Sauternes wine and how do you drink it?
Sauternes is a sweet white dessert wine from the Sauternes area of Bordeaux, France, made from Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle grapes affected by noble rot. The appellation requires at least 13% alcohol. Serve it chilled in small glasses with foie gras, blue cheese or desserts. Health agencies do not recommend drinking alcohol for health benefits.
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What are Sauternes?
Sauternes is a sweet wine from the Sauternes appellation in Bordeaux. It is made from Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle (Semillon usually makes up the largest share). The grapes are affected by Botrytis cinerea, called noble rot, which partly raisins them and concentrates their sugar and flavor. Because the rot varies by year, harvests differ widely from vintage to vintage. Barsac is a commune within the Sauternes area that may use either name, and its wines are generally drier and lighter.
Sauternes alcohol content
The appellation requires a minimum of 13% alcohol, and finished wines are commonly around 13% to 14% ABV. Check the label, since it varies by producer and vintage. No residual sugar level is set, but the wine must taste noticeably sweet, so a small glass goes a long way.
How to drink Sauternes
- Chill it. A common recommendation is about 50 F (10 C), with guides giving ranges of roughly 46 to 52 F (8 to 11 C). Older bottles are often served a few degrees warmer.
- Pour small glasses in a white wine or dessert glass.
- Sip it slowly at the end of a meal, or with a rich first course.
What to eat with Sauternes
| Pairing | Why it works |
|---|---|
| Foie gras | A classic match |
| Blue cheese such as Roquefort | Salt and sweet contrast |
| Fruit tarts, creme brulee | Sweet with sweet |
Are there health benefits to drinking Sauternes?
We found no official source supporting claimed benefits from moderate Sauternes. It is high in sugar and alcohol. Health agencies generally advise limiting alcohol and do not recommend drinking it for health. If you drink, keep it occasional, and ask a doctor if you have a health condition or take medicines.
How long does it keep after opening?
Re-cork and refrigerate. There is no official limit; a week or two is a common rule of thumb for best flavor.
People also ask
What is Sauternes wine?
A sweet white wine from Bordeaux made from Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle grapes affected by noble rot.
What is the alcohol content of Sauternes?
At least 13% ABV is required by the appellation, and wines are commonly around 13% to 14%. Check the label.
How do you serve Sauternes?
Chilled to roughly 46 to 52 F (8 to 11 C) in small glasses, with foie gras, blue cheese or dessert.
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