Appellation Sauternes
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Guaranteed Sauternes vintages (AOC)

The decree establishing the Sauternes Appellation d’Origine Controlée (AOC) was published in 1936. It restricts the right to be named Sauternes AOC to wines respecting very strict conditions regarding area, variety of vine and wine-growing practice.

All these criteria, guaranteeing quality and respect for tradition, explain the great rarity and prestige of Sauternes wines.

Area of production : only 1900 selected hectares can produce the Sauternes wine. They cover strictly 5 villages. It should be noted that Barsac wines may be called either Barsac or Sauternes.	Sugar concentration : the sugar concentration is due to Botrytis Cinerea, a microscopic fungus which develops under the influence of a microclimate peculiar to the Sauternes region. It is 100% natural.

Varieties of vine : Sauternes wines are a blend of three types of grapes: Semillon, Sauvignon and Muscadelle. The first one is always selected whereas the Sauvignon and Muscadelle are used only in certain blends, depending on the choice of each wine-grower.	Wine-growing practice : the yields of Sauternes vineyards are among the lowest authorised and must not exceed more than 25 hectolitres per hectare. Storage : wine is stored in barrels between 6 to 18 months.

Degree of alcohol : the minimum required degree of alcohol in the Sauternes wines is 13° but it may be as much as 14°5.

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Please enjoy Sauternes responsibly