Among the world’s most prominent sweet wine regions, Sauternes is also prized by distillers for its barrels — coveted vessels for imparting unique flavors when aging and finishing spirits. Amid concerns of counterfeits, the region has proposed issuing certification with barrel purchases, giving spirits producers extra protection against fakes when buying the casks.
A QR code will confirm each barrel’s location of origin and previous uses, and also allows for easier second-hand sales, according to an article by Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux. The process is currently under development and supported by Sauternes producers. It’s estimated that the initiative will launch in 2023.
