Sauternes Classified Growths: A Divine Nectar Inherited from History

Ah, Sauternes! When we think of Sauternes, images of golden autumn sunshine immediately come to mind, as do clusters of grapes bursting with sugar, ready to give birth to one of the most famous sweet wines. But what lies behind this prestigious appellation? Nestled in its heart, the Crus Classés of Sauternes perpetuate ancestral know-how.

An imperial ranking

The history of the Sauternes crus classés dates back to the 1855 Universal Exhibition in Paris. At the request of Napoleon III, a classification of the best Bordeaux wines was established, including the sweet wines of Sauternes and Barsac. This 1855 classification, based on the reputation and prices of the wines at the time, honored the excellence of the châteaux, giving them a prestigious image that persists to this day.

The different levels of Sauternes Crus Classés

The 1855 classification established different categories of Sauternes Crus Classés, thus recognizing the hierarchy of the châteaux:

• Premier Cru Supérieur (1 château): Château d’Yquem, the undisputed star of Sauternes, whose reputation transcends borders.

• Premiers Crus (11 châteaux): Among them, we find prestigious names such as Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey, Château Climens, Château Coutet, Château Guiraud, Château de Rayne Vigneau, etc.

• Second Growths (14 châteaux): Estates of excellence that offer excellent value for money, such as Château Doisy-Daëne, Château Caillou, Château Filhot, etc.

A unique terroir

Soils rich in gravel, clay, and sand, combined with a specific microclimate, provide ideal conditions for noble rot. Morning mists and sunny afternoons encourage the growth of botrytis, a microscopic fungus that concentrates the sugars and aromas of the grapes.

Sauternes classified growths offer a complex and intense aromatic palette. They feature notes of candied fruit (apricot, quince), honey, sweet spices (vanilla, cinnamon), and sometimes flowers (acacia, honeysuckle). On the palate, the perfect balance between sweetness and acidity gives these wines remarkable freshness and elegance.

Why choose a Sauternes Classified Growth?

Choosing a Sauternes Cru Classé is a guaranteed memorable tasting experience. The sugar and alcohol content seem to almost certainly guarantee a perfectly preserved wine. It’s also discovering a wine that combines richness and indulgence with remarkable elegance and finesse. But choosing a Sauternes Cru Classé also means investing in a wine with ageing potential that will increase in value over time.

How to taste a Sauternes?

Sauternes is best enjoyed slightly chilled, between 10 and 13°C. It pairs wonderfully with foie gras, blue cheeses (Roquefort, Fourme d’Ambert), fruit desserts (tarte Tatin, exotic fruit salad) and sweet and savory dishes. A glass of Sauternes is therefore not just a glass of wine; it is a sensory experience, a gourmet and suspended moment where richness blends with aromatic complexity.

With unbeatable value for money and the opportunity to access older vintages at reasonable prices, with the guarantee of a successful experience, treat yourself and choose a Sauternes Cru Classé from our many vintages. You won’t be disappointed!

Château Climens 2001

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Château d’Yquem 1921

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Château Coutet 1976

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