South West France

• Malbec (Côt): the signature grape of Cahors, producing deeply colored reds with flavors of dark plum, blackberry, and earthy notes; robust and structured, often referred to as “black wine.”
• Tannat: the powerhouse of Madiran, offering full-bodied, age-worthy reds with intense tannins, black fruit, licorice, and a spicy, smoky edge.
• Négrette: unique to Fronton, crafting aromatic reds and rosés with soft tannins, floral accents, raspberry, and subtle licorice.
• Fer Servadou (Braucol/Mansois): brings rustic charm in Gaillac and Marcillac, delivering reds with redcurrant, raspberry, spice, and a fresh herbaceous character.
• Duras: a Gaillac native lending spicy, peppery notes and lively red fruit to local blends.
• Petit Manseng: the star for sweet and dry whites in Jurançon, celebrated for vibrant acidity and flavors of honey, apricot, and tropical fruit.
• Gros Manseng: produces crisp, dry whites with lively citrus, quince, spice, and refreshing acidity in Jurançon Sec.
• Mauzac: Gaillac’s hallmark white, versatile for dry, sweet, and sparkling styles, offering green apple, pear, and honeyed notes.
• Colombard & Ugni Blanc: foundational to Côtes de Gascogne, making aromatic, zesty dry whites with grapefruit, lime, and passionfruit; also key grapes for Armagnac.
• Loin de l’Oeil (Len de l’El): a Gaillac specialty yielding floral, low-alcohol whites with delicate aromatics.
• Bordeaux Varieties (Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc): widely grown in Bergerac, contributing to classic Bordeaux-style blends and fresh, aromatic whites.

South West France is at the forefront of sustainable winemaking, embracing practices that protect its rich biodiversity and respond to modern challenges. The region's commitment extends beyond organic farming, with a focus on preserving genetic diversity. The Saint-Mont Vine Conservation Centre, the largest private conservatory in France, plays a pivotal role in safeguarding rare grape varieties like Manseng Noir. This emphasis on genetic diversity is crucial for adapting to a changing climate and is central to the region's sustainability goals. Organic and biodynamic methods are widespread among winemakers who believe these practices highlight the unique terroir of South West France. Many vineyards are family-owned, fostering a natural inclination toward sustainable farming. Innovation is key, with initiatives such as agro-forestry and lighter packaging aimed at reducing carbon emissions. The Buzet cooperative is a leader in these efforts, with the region collectively striving for carbon neutrality by 2050. Through these comprehensive and forward-thinking strategies, South West France is carving a path toward a sustainable future in winemaking.

Wine tourism in South West France offers an authentic experience beyond the well-trodden paths of Bordeaux. This region, with its rich winemaking heritage and diverse sub-regions, invites exploration through various wine routes. The Cahors Wine Route, following the Lot River, is notable for its robust Malbec wines and historic towns like Puy-l'Évêque. Meanwhile, the Jurançon Wine Route provides a scenic journey through the Pyrenean foothills, where visitors can taste the region’s renowned sweet and dry white wines. The Gaillac Wine Route is a trip back in time, exploring one of France's oldest vineyard areas with wines crafted from unique local grapes. Beyond the vineyards, South West France offers a vibrant food scene that perfectly complements its wines. Local events and festivals, such as the Salon des Vins de Gaillac and Ban des Vendanges in Saint-Émilion, provide opportunities to engage with local winemakers and experience the region’s culture firsthand. These gatherings highlight the strong community spirit and the dedication to preserving traditional winemaking practices, making them a cornerstone of the region’s appeal. Here, wine tourism is not just about tasting wines; it's about immersing oneself in a culture that celebrates both its past and its future in winemaking.

South West France's terroir is a mosaic of diverse landscapes, where river valleys and foothills create a tapestry of limestone, clay, and gravel soils. This geological diversity provides an ideal foundation for the region's signature grape varieties, with each soil type imparting unique characteristics to the wines, from the robust reds of Malbec and Tannat to the lively whites of Petit Manseng. The climate, moderated by the Atlantic Ocean, ensures a balanced growing season with moderate temperatures and ample rainfall. This maritime influence, coupled with varied microclimates, supports the cultivation of both bold and aromatic grape varieties, allowing winemakers to craft an array of wine styles that reflect the distinctiveness of South West France's terroir.