AOC Saussignac

AOP Saussignac, nestled in the heart of purple Périgord, is an appellation dedicated exclusively to sweet white wines. Renowned for its refinement and rarity, this small appellation, located near Bergerac, embodies the excellence of sweet and syrupy wines from the South-West. Produced in an idyllic setting, Saussignac wines derive their richness and elegance from a unique terroir and ancestral know-how. These nectars are made from over-ripe grapes, often picked late, allowing a natural concentration of sugars and aromas thanks to noble rot or passerillage.

More and more Saussignac winemakers are adopting organic or biodynamic viticulture practices, reinforcing the authenticity and quality of these exceptional wines. Saussignac organic wines, with their complex aromas of candied fruits, honey and spices, are perfect for accompanying refined dishes such as foie gras, desserts or blue-veined cheeses.

AOP Saussignac is located in the Dordogne department, in the heart of purple Périgord, around 10 kilometers southwest of Bergerac. This confidential appellation covers just 50 hectares, which contributes to the rarity and exclusivity of its sweet wines. The Saussignac vineyards are planted on clay-limestone and loam soils, which offer excellent water retention and natural drainage. These characteristics enable the grapes to develop their aromatic complexity and sugar concentration. Saussignac's climate is marked by an oceanic influence, with mild, wet autumns conducive to the development of noble rot (Botrytis cinerea). This phenomenon concentrates sugars and aromas in the grapes, while preserving their acidity, which is essential for the balance of sweet wines.

Harvesting, often late and by hand, enables meticulous selection of bunches, guaranteeing the quality and purity of the wines. This unique terroir, combined with organic viticulture practices, gives rise to organic Saussignac wines of incomparable finesse and aromatic intensity.

The Saussignac PDO wines are made from the traditional white grape varieties of the South-West, which contribute to their richness and aromatic complexity. These grape varieties, often used in blends, are carefully selected for their ability to fully express the terroir and produce exceptional sweet wines.

Sémillon: The dominant grape variety in the appellation, it is particularly well-suited to the development of noble rot. Sémillon brings aromas of honey, candied fruit and dried flowers to Saussignac wines, as well as a smooth texture.

Sauvignon Blanc: A grape variety that is particularly well suited to the development of noble rot.

Sauvignon Blanc: This grape variety adds lovely freshness and notes of citrus and exotic fruit, balancing the natural richness of sweet wines.

Muscadelle: This variety lends finesse and elegance to wines, with delicate aromas of white flowers, ripe fruit and a light musky touch.

These grape varieties, hand-harvested under optimal conditions, produce organic Saussignac wines of great complexity, where sweetness and acidity blend perfectly to offer an exceptional tasting experience.

The sweet wines of Saussignac PDO are distinguished by their richness, balance and aromatic complexity. Produced from over-ripe, late-harvested grapes, these wines offer a unique sensory experience, where each sip reveals the exceptional quality of their terroir.

The color: Saussignac wines present a beautiful golden color, which evolves over time to amber hues, testifying to their concentration and aging potential.

Nose: On the nose, Saussignac organic wines reveal a broad aromatic palette, dominated by notes of candied fruit (apricot, mango, pineapple), honey, dried flowers and sweet spices. These intense, complex aromas reflect the care taken at every stage of their development.

Mouth: On the palate, these wines are rich and unctuous, with a lovely acidity that balances their natural sweetness. The finish is long, marked by notes of exotic fruit, caramel and sometimes a mineral touch.

Saussignac wines pair perfectly with refined dishes such as foie gras, fruit desserts or blue-veined cheeses. Thanks to their structure and complexity, they can be enjoyed young for their liveliness, or after several years of cellaring, when they develop more evolved and profound aromas.

Saussignac wines are a perfect match for refined dishes such as foie gras, fruit desserts or blue-veined cheeses.