Sablettes is the second label of Château Doisy-Védrines, a 2ème Cru Classé estate in Barsac — one of five communes within the Sauternes AOC — where 25 hectares of gravel-over-limestone soils host vines averaging 35 years old, planted to 80% Sémillon and 20% Sauvignon Blanc. The estate sits near the confluence of the Ciron and Garonne rivers, where the Ciron's cooler waters generate the morning mists that are essential for the development of botrytis cinerea, the noble rot responsible for Sauternes' characteristic concentration and sweetness.

Grapes are harvested entirely by hand in successive passes through the vineyard — up to nine tries successives over six to eight weeks — selecting only botrytised bunches at each pass, before fermentation and ageing take place in French oak barrels using the same process applied to the grand vin. The 2012 vintage in Sauternes was defined by uneven botrytis and naturally high acidity, producing wines of freshness and elegance rather than the weight of richer years; this bottling reflects that character, showing citrus, quince, honey and candied peel with a clean, lively finish. At its price point, Sablettes offers a technically faithful introduction to the methods and terroir of a classified Sauternes estate.