Monbazillac

The "poor man's Sauternes" that rivals its famous neighbor - botrytis-affected sweet wines from the Dordogne at a fraction of the price.

Grapes Muscadelle

History

Sweet botrytized wines made here for centuries. Granted AOC in 1936 - among France's first. Quality declined mid-century, but the 1993 regulations banning mechanical harvesting and requiring tries successives (Sauternes technique) restored reputation. Now produces some of France's best value sweet wines.

At a glance

Climate: Maritime with river confluence creating autumn mists perfect for noble rot; south-facing slopes; 2,000 hectares on clay-limestone
Signature wines: Château Tirecul La Gravière - benchmark producer; Bruno Bilancini crafts wines that rival top Sauternes at a third the price. Also: Château l'Ancienne Cure. Price: $20-40.
What sets it apart: Among France's first AOCs (1936); same techniques as Sauternes since 1993; higher Muscadelle than Sauternes gives exotic floral twist; 100km from Sauternes at a fraction of the price

One of France's FIRST AOCs (1936)
since 1993 mechanical harvesting banned and tries successives required (same as Sauternes)
2,000 hectares produce fraction of Sauternes volume
higher Muscadelle gives exotic floral notes