One of the more famous wineries in Sauterne would be Chateau Riussec. Like most of the dirty little secrets of winemaking - the secret is the land (terroir), and a really great famous winery is surrounded by not so famous wineries.
Granted skill is important - but it's kind of funny that you can buy a half bottle of Sauterne in the US for $70, but also buy an entire bottle of Chateau Trillon (which is next door) for $9.