Sauternes: How a Fungus Creates Liquid Gold
It might be hard to believe, but an unattractive fungus actually helps produce some of the most fantastic wines in the world. Not to be confused with the ho-hum California Sauterne wines--without the “s” at the end of the word--most Sauternes originate from the Bordeaux region of France, and they’re some of the most spectacular wines you can drink. And for this, you can thank a force of nature called noble rot.
Is that the smell of liquid gold?
When the last days of autumn linger and humid weather partners up with bright sunny days, the botrytis cinerea fungus infects the already-ripened grapes and creates something magical. The fungus dehydrates the grapes and leaves behind a fruit that’s beautifully sweet and complex, worth every penny it’ll run you.
Many consider Sauternes precious gold because getting a good vintage isn’t easy. Workers walk through the fields and pick the grapes by hand, repeating the process until November. If late autumn weather is a bust, so is the grape yield. The short, unpredictable season and labor-intensive process means that Sauternes can be expensive, and it could take a decade to get a few good vintages. A Sauternes can cost $50 to $400 or more. Fortunately, they’re available in half bottles, so you don’t have to deprive yourself of this delicious experience.
The most delicious blend!
Sémillon is the main grape that goes into Sauternes; sometimes, a Sauvignon Blanc is used, and rarely, Muscadelle. But most of the blends consist of about 80% Sémillon.
An aged Sauternes is incredible and can be enjoyed after even 50 years if you can wait that long. Most people can’t. If you can wait 10 years, the wine will be perfect, with hints of apricot, honey, orange rind, and toffee. But Sauternes, at any age, is a thing of beauty.
It’s best to enjoy Sauternes chilled but not too cold. Sip it with spicy Thai dishes, scallops, lobster, or blue cheeses such as Roquefort. It’s also wonderful after dinner, accompanying a fruity dessert like a lemon pound cake, apricot tart, or ripe berries.
Want to discover other types of wines? Check out Boston Winery’s wine tastings! They’re fun and educational (and delicious)!
