Sauternes & Bordeaux White Blends
Bordeaux White Blends originate from the Bordeaux region in southwestern France, where they are crafted from a combination of Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and occasionally Muscadelle. These blends are produced in both dry and sweet styles, with notable examples coming from regions like Pessac-Léognan (dry) and Sauternes (sweet).
Taste Profile:
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Dry Bordeaux White Blends: These wines are fresh and aromatic, often featuring flavors of citrus (lemon, lime), green apple, and tropical fruits, with herbal and floral undertones. Sémillon contributes a rich, waxy texture and honeyed complexity, while Sauvignon Blanc provides crisp acidity and vibrant aromatics. Oak aging is sometimes used, adding notes of vanilla, spice, and toast.
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Sweet Bordeaux White Blends: In regions like Sauternes and Barsac, the blend leans heavily on Sémillon, with Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle adding acidity and aromatics. These wines are lusciously sweet with flavors of apricot, peach, honey, and marmalade, often enhanced by botrytis ("noble rot"), which intensifies their richness and complexity.
Global Influence: Bordeaux White Blends have inspired winemaking in regions such as California, Australia, South Africa, and Chile, where both dry and sweet styles are crafted. In particular, regions like Margaret River (Australia) and Napa Valley (California) produce dry blends with ripe fruit and vibrant acidity, while sweet blends influenced by Sauternes are made in cooler areas with suitable conditions for botrytis. Bordeaux White Blends are highly versatile, pairing well with seafood, creamy dishes, and desserts, depending on the style
