Sauternes for Dummies

Hey there! So, let's talk about the word "Sauternes." Now, this is a word that might sound new or unfamiliar to you, but don't worry, I'm here to help you understand it in the simplest way possible!

So, have you ever tried different types of wines? If you have, you might know that Sauternes is a kind of wine that is really special and unique. It comes from a specific region in France called Sauternes. But what makes it so special?

Well, Sauternes wine is not like any ordinary wine you might have tasted before. It has a very rich and sweet flavor, which comes from a special process that happens while making the wine. You see, in the Sauternes region, there is something really interesting that takes place - a fungus called Botrytis Cinerea.

Now, you might be wondering, what on earth is this fungus and why does it matter? Imagine walking through a beautiful field with lots of flowers and plants. Sometimes, the weather conditions can be just right for this fungus to grow on certain grapes in the vineyards. When this happens, the grapes become partially dried and shriveled, almost like raisins!

Now, you might be thinking, "Why would anyone want to make wine with shriveled grapes? That sounds weird!" Great question! Well, it turns out that this fungus adds something really special to the grapes. It concentrates their flavors and sugars, making them incredibly sweet and delicious.

So, to make Sauternes wine, the winemakers carefully select these shriveled grapes and then press them to get all the sweet juice out. The juice is then fermented and aged in special barrels, which helps develop even more complex flavors.

Now, Sauternes wine is not just sweet, it is also known for having a beautiful golden color. Just imagine a warm, glowing sunset - that's the color of Sauternes! And because it is so unique and special, Sauternes is often enjoyed as a dessert wine or paired with certain types of food, like blue cheese or foie gras.

So, to sum it up, "Sauternes" is a type of wine that comes from a specific region in France. It is made using specially selected shriveled grapes that have been affected by the Botrytis fungus, which adds a rich sweetness to the wine. Sauternes wine has a beautiful golden color and is often enjoyed as a dessert wine or paired with specific foods.

So, there you have it! I hope this explanation helps you understand what "Sauternes" means. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!