Viniou Reviews
The 1980 Château Veyres Sauternes is a distinguished sweet white wine from the renowned Sauternais subregion of Bordeaux, France. This wine is crafted predominantly from carefully selected grapes such as Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle, which are traditionally used in creating the complex, luscious wines of Sauternes. The terroir of Sauternes, with its unique microclimate influenced by the misty conditions produced by the nearby Garonne and Ciron rivers, promotes the development of the noble rot, Botrytis cinerea. This process is pivotal in concentrating the sugars and flavours in the grapes, yielding a wine with rich sweetness balanced by vibrant acidity.
Bordeaux's Sauternes region has a deep history intertwined with prestigious viticulture. The area’s gravel and clay soils contribute to the distinctive profile of its wines, supporting the slow ripening of grapes essential for the development of their full spectrum of flavours. The wines of this region have been lauded since at least the 17th century and continue to be highly esteemed in wine circles globally.
When pairing this 1980 Château Veyres Sauternes with food, consider dishes that complement its sweet, complex nature. It pairs exceptionally well with blue cheeses, such as Roquefort, and can enhance rich, savoury dishes like foie gras. For a regional pairing, try it with a tarte Tatin or a classic French fruit tart, both of which highlight the wine’s honeyed notes and stone fruit character.
To fully appreciate this vintage Sauternes’ nuanced aroma and flavour profile, serve it slightly chilled at 10-12°C. Allow the wine to breathe for a moment as it warms gently in the glass, unveiling layers of apricot, honey, and toasted nuts, promising a truly gratifying tasting experience.
