The largest of the five townships within the SAUTERNES district, Barsac is the most recognizable APPELLATION after Sauternes itself. It’s part of France’s BORDEAUX region and is located approximately 25 miles from the city of Bordeaux. Because Barsac is part of the Sauternes appellation, producers may also use “Sauternes” on their label, although most top producers simply use “Barsac.” Like their Sauternes neighbors, Barsac wines are sweet and luscious, although generally lighter and more refined. The wines are made from SÉMILLON, SAUVIGNON BLANC, and a little MUSCADELLE. The best producer is Château Climens followed by Châteaux Coutet and Doisy- Védrines and then by Châteaux Broustet, Doisy-Daëne, and Nairac. The very rare Cuvée Madame from Château Coutet is specially produced in exceptional years and thought by some to be second only to the renowned Château d’Yquem.