What is the appropriate service temperature for a Sauternes?

The appropriate service temperature for Sauternes is well chilled at 6-8ᵒC (43-45ᵒF). This temperature range enhances the wine's aromatic qualities and balances its natural sweetness with acidity, making it more refreshing for the palate. Sauternes, being a sweet dessert wine, benefits from being served at this cooler temperature, which prevents the sweetness from becoming overwhelming and allows the nuanced flavors of the wine to shine through.

Serving it well chilled helps to emphasize the vibrant fruit characteristics and the wine's honeyed notes, which might be muted at warmer temperatures. At this temperature, the wine is not too cold to overshadow its complexities, yet cool enough to be enjoyed as a refreshing pairing with desserts or cheese.

In contrast, serving Sauternes at a more chilled temperature (like the 6-10ᵒC range which is very chilled) may mask its delicate aromas, while a lightly chilled or room temperature would not provide the refreshing profile that balances its richness. Thus, well chilled at 6-8ᵒC is the ideal temperature for enjoying this exquisite wine.