Sauternes Can Make the Meal

by Westgarth Wines January 23, 2020

Sauternes is a sweet wine from the Bordeaux region with a long and rich history and an idiosyncratic taste profile. The wine is made when grapes acquire "noble rot" which condense the juice inside the grapes. It is essentially like making wine from raisins and therefore takes many more grapes to make a glass of Sauternes than it does a typical wine, and as such Sauternes remains in a realm all its own, celebrated both for its scarcity and delicacy. 

While most people try to pair it with dessert, as it is sweet, the producers in Bordeaux wish diners would open their minds to how well Sauternes can pair with savory dishes. It has a high acid level that cuts through the sweetness making it refreshing as it is honeyed. Paired with a salty bleu cheese, it can be spectacular. Another good pairing to try is with spicy food, like Thai or Indian. The sweetness mollifies the spice making a very harmonious mouthful. We suggest opening a bottle and seeing for yourself!

Photo @yquem_official

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