Certified Sommelier Practice Exam

Which type of wine is Sauternes most renowned for?

1. Dry white wine

2. Botrytis dessert wine

3. Sparkling wine

4. Fortified wine

The correct answer is: Botrytis dessert wine

Sauternes is most renowned for being a botrytis dessert wine, specifically noted for its distinct sweetness and complexity. This type of wine is produced in the Sauternes region of Bordeaux, France, where specific climatic conditions allow for the development of noble rot (Botrytis cinerea) on the grapes, typically Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle. This fungus causes water to evaporate from the grapes, concentrating their sugars and flavors, resulting in exceptionally rich and luscious wines that showcase honeyed notes, stone fruits, and floral characteristics. The unique process of harvesting overripe, botrytized grapes not only enhances the sweetness but also contributes to the wine's aromatic complexity and prolonged aging potential. This makes Sauternes a celebrated choice for dessert pairings and a highlight within the world of sweet wines. In contrast, dry white wines are typically crisp and refreshing but lack the rich sweetness associated with botrytis-affected wines. Sparkling wines are carbonated and often enjoyed as aperitifs or celebratory drinks, while fortified wines, which have added spirits to increase alcohol content, are not representative of Sauternes’ style. Thus, the distinctive features and production methods that define Sauternes firmly establish it as