Graves Supérieures
グラーヴ・スュペリウール
Noble-rot sweet white from Bordeaux's Graves, golden and elegantly honeyed
Graves Supérieures is an AOC within the Graves district of Bordeaux, located south of the city along the left bank of the Garonne River. Established in 1937, it designates semi-sweet to sweet white wines produced from overripe grapes, often affected by Botrytis cinerea (noble rot). The appellation covers approximately 500 hectares of gravelly, well-drained soils — the same territory as the broader Graves AOC. Wines must achieve a minimum must-weight of 221 g/L and a minimum alcohol level of 13.5% ABV. Grapes are hand-harvested in multiple successive passes between September and November. The primary varieties are Sémillon (around 48%), Sauvignon Blanc (around 45%), and Muscadelle (around 4%). The resulting wines are golden in colour, with aromas of candied fruit, citrus, white peach, honey, and floral notes, balanced by subtle acidity and a refreshing finish. They age well for 2–10 years. Note: as of October 2025, the Graves Supérieures AOC has been declassified, with sweet white wines from the area now released under the broader Graves AOC.
Best for: Lovers of elegant, semi-sweet Bordeaux white wines with complexity and aging potential
No sub-regions registered yet.
Food Pairings
Foie gras, Roquefort and blue cheeses, fruit-based desserts, almond tart, crème brûlée, lemon tart, meringues, poultry in cream sauce, mild-flavored fish dishes
Frequently Asked Questions
- What type of wine is Graves Supérieures?
- Graves Supérieures is an AOC dedicated to semi-sweet to sweet white wines from the Graves district of Bordeaux. Unlike the main Graves AOC (which covers red and dry white), Graves Supérieures is exclusively sweet white wine, made from grapes affected by noble rot (Botrytis cinerea).
- What grapes are used in Graves Supérieures?
- The wines are made from a blend of Sémillon (approximately 48%), Sauvignon Blanc (approximately 45%), and Muscadelle (approximately 4%). Sémillon provides body and richness, Sauvignon Blanc adds freshness and aromatic vibrancy, and Muscadelle contributes floral and fruity notes.
- How is Graves Supérieures different from Sauternes?
- Both are sweet Bordeaux whites made from botrytis-affected grapes, but Sauternes is generally richer, more concentrated, and more prestigious. Graves Supérieures tends to be lighter and more accessible in style, with a higher proportion of Sauvignon Blanc giving it more freshness. Sauternes also requires a higher minimum sugar level.
- How long can Graves Supérieures wines age?
- These wines develop more complex flavors with 2 to 5 years of aging, and the best examples can age for up to 10 years. The balance of sugar, acidity, and alcohol (minimum 13.5% ABV) supports good aging potential.
- Is the Graves Supérieures AOC still active?
- As of October 2025, the Graves Supérieures AOC was officially declassified. Sweet white wines from the same area are now produced under the broader Graves AOC designation. Bottles labeled Graves Supérieures from previous vintages remain valid.