What is the main ingredient in a Beurre Blanc sauce?

Beurre Blanc is a classic French sauce that primarily consists of reduced white wine. This ingredient forms the base of the sauce, where white wine is typically combined with shallots and then reduced to intensify the flavors. After reducing the wine, cold butter is slowly whisked in to create a rich, emulsified texture. This technique is key to achieving the creamy, buttery consistency that characterizes Beurre Blanc.

While other ingredients like cream, olive oil, or lemon juice may be used in different sauces or variations, they do not define the classic Beurre Blanc. The reduction of white wine distinguishes this sauce and provides the acidic balance necessary to complement its buttery richness.