Sauternes

History

Records from 17th century show rotted Sémillon grapes separated from clean ones. By 18th century, reputation rivaled German and Hungarian dessert wines. Phylloxera changed plantings from 50/50 Sémillon/Sauvignon to Sémillon dominance. 1855 Classification included Sauternes alongside Médoc reds.

At a glance

Climate

Unique microclimate where Ciron River meets Garonne creates morning mist + afternoon sun, perfect for noble rot (botrytis cinerea)

Signature wines

Château d'Yquem - only Premier Cru Supérieur in 1855 Classification, benchmark for botrytis wines worldwide

What sets it apart

Unique river confluence creates noble rot microclimate found almost nowhere else; Sémillon's susceptibility to botrytis makes it ideal; requires multiple harvest passes

• Thomas Jefferson was avid fan
• George Washington ordered 30 dozen bottles after tasting Yquem as President
• botrytis requires exact conditions - misty mornings, sunny afternoons - making production unpredictable