Collection: Sauternes-Barsac

The 1855 Official Classification of SAUTERNES – BARSAC

Sauternes and Barsac, the sweet, white Bordeaux wines, were also included in the original 1855 Classification, but in only two classes.

The classification took place in 1855, at the same time the wines of the Medoc were classified. However, while the red wines from the Medoc were classed into 5 levels (Growths), these sweet, white wines were classed into only three levels, Premier Cru Supérieur, which was reserved solely for Chateau d’Yquem, Premier Cru, which is essentially a First Growth, and Deuxièmes Crus, the Second Growth wines.

The Sauternes and Barsac estates included in the classification were also intended to reflect the market’s view of the relative quality between the wines in terms of the achievable selling price and general perceived reputation of the various châteaux.

It always makes for a fun discussion about which is the best wine of an appellation. Even among the First Growths of the Medoc, people do not agree which estate rates best. But even among the wine makers and chateau owners themselves that produce Sauternes, there is no argument: Since its beginnings, Chateau d’Yquem continues to remain in a class that is ranked above all other Bordeaux wines, and this includes the red wines as well!

Should a reclassification of Sauternes and Barsac ever take place, things would seriously change however for classified growths making sweet, white Bordeaux wine. Chateau de Fargues and Chateau Raymond Lafon would both merit First Growth status while other estates would equally be demoted, or even declassified.

CHARACTERISTICS OF SAUTERNES & BARSAC WINES 

AROMAS:  A complex, balanced bouquet with flowers and fruit. The primary aromas: almond, quince, mango, pineapple, roasted peach, dried apricot, and passion fruit. Like the Sémillons, notes of beeswax, almond, and hazelnut.

TASTE:  Powerful, full-bodied, but elegant, with an entrancing sweetness and exceptional aromatic finish.

If you’re interested in learning more about the wines of Sauternes and Barsac, please visit The Wine Cellar Insider