Viniou Reviews
Château Bern's 2024 Sainte-Croix-du-Mont is a luscious sweet white wine from the Entre-deux-Mers region of Bordeaux. Though specific grape blend details are missing, this appellation typically favours Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle. Renowned for its botrytised wines, Sainte-Croix-du-Mont experiences the beneficial effects of the noble rot, which enhances the sweetness and complexity of the wine. Grown in vineyards overlooking the Garonne River, the area benefits from favourable climatic conditions and unique limestone-rich soils, contributing to the wine’s distinctive minerality and richness.
The Bordeaux region, particularly Entre-deux-Mers, enjoys a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and warm summers. The proximity to the river causes morning mists, which are essential for the development of Botrytis cinerea, or noble rot, thus proving ideal for producing sweet wines. Historically, Bordeaux has been at the forefront of wine production since Roman times and continues to hold a global reputation for both its reds and whites due to its versatile terroir and centuries-old winemaking traditions.
Given its sweetness and vibrant acidity, this wine pairs exquisitely with a variety of foods. Traditional matches like foie gras exploit the wine's unctuous texture, while blue cheeses such as Roquefort accentuate its fruitiness. For something sweeter, consider a tarte tatin or a lemon meringue pie, which harmonises beautifully with its citrus notes. On a regional note, pairing it with canelé, a specialty from Bordeaux, provides a delightful combination.
For an optimal tasting experience, serve Château Bern's Sainte-Croix-du-Mont slightly chilled, at around 10-12°C. This temperature highlights its aromatic bouquet and maintains the balance between its acidity and sweetness, offering a refreshing overview of the wine's expressive character. As you savour it, let the wine evolve in the glass, revealing layers of complexity with every sip.
