Sauternes, the highly prestigious sweet white wine, is produced 40 km upstream of Bordeaux in a region nestled between the left bank of the Garonne river and the immense Landes forest. This noble area of about 2,200 hectares is divided among the villages of Sauternes, Bommes, Fargues, Preignac and Barsac. Although they can all properly claim the famous Sauternes appellation, producers in Barsac can choose between the Sauternes A.O.C. and its sister appellation, Barsac A.O.C., which controls production in a very similar manner.

Often imitated, the quintessential character of these wines can never be rivalled. The winegrowers, who produce incredibly low yields, are proud of their region’s special identity, even if this means paying a heavy tribute to the capricious microclimate that is responsible for the famous noble rot.

The 26 Sauternes and Barsac great growths, as classified at the 1855 Universal Exhibition in Paris, are the region’s finest wines. For 140 years their successive owners, conscious of their responsabilities, have perfected skilfully these legendary, yet unpredictable elixirs. Their fine qualities may be appreciated unaccompanied, or with food, producing  some of the most surprising combinations. Getting to know the great growth wines of a region is always fascinating. All châteaux are subject to the same restrictions governing their production, yet each one is different due to its geographical location as well as the viticultural and oenological choices made by the winemaker. These estates are waiting to welcome you if you are tempted to visit this delightful region on a beautiful day rich with the coppery hues of late autumn. You will discover a lovely countryside of gravel and red earth, smalI meandering roads and stately châteaux.