Which subregion is renowned for Semillon-dominated sweet whites?

• A. Sauternes
• B. Pessac-Léognan
• C. Entre-Deux-Mers
• D. Graves

Answer: (A)

Recognizing which Bordeaux subregion produces Semillon-dominated sweet wines helps here. In Sauternes, grapes affected by noble rot concentrate sugars and flavors, and Semillon tends to be the dominant grape in the blend, giving a rich, luscious, honeyed character with aging potential. Sauvignon Blanc adds acidity and aromatic lift, while Muscadelle contributes perfume, but the hallmark is Semillon-dominated botrytized sweetness. The other subregions are known for different styles—Pessac-Léognan for dry whites and reds, Entre-Deux-Mers mainly dry whites, and Graves for both dry whites and reds but not the classic Semillon-dominated sweet style. So the subregion renowned for Semillon-dominated sweet whites is Sauternes.