Sauternes and Barsac, where noble rot is king, have long offered some of the world’s finest premium wines, with characteristic complexity, longevity and food-matching versatility.  These two golden elixirs, hailing from the Bordeaux region of France, are often mentioned in the same breath. Yet they have distinct terroirs - Barsac generally comprises clay and limestone soils, while Sauternes features more gravel. The resulting wines tend to have very different personalities: fresher, brighter citrus flavors in Barsac, with richer, more tropical fruits in Sauternes.

This is a rare opportunity for members and their guests to compare mature Sauternes and Barsac from four leading producers across two exceptional vintages – 2001 and 2005.  There will also be a 2019 Rieussec as an aperitif!  Our expert guide for the evening will be Elizabeth Kelly MW who has a particular passion for Sauternes and Barsac.

We will taste the following nine wines:

Sauternes

Rieussec 2001, 2005 & 2019

De Fargues 2001 & 2005

Barsac

Coutet 2001 & 2005

Doisy-Daene 2001 & 2005

As a nod to classic food pairings, the wines will be served with two varieties of blue cheese, as well as with a traditional English favourite – Battenburg cake!

Member tickets are £80 and guest tickets are £85. Please note that only 72 tickets are available for this tasting so early purchase is recommended.

If you are using the Society's website to purchase tickets for the first time, you are encouraged to register so as to make future ticket purchases even easier.  The Society operates a free seating policy at tastings so if you are coming as a group, please arrive early to ensure seats together.

If you have any questions, please contact the organiser, Duncan Holden, on duncanandliz@btinternet.com.