The South-West of France is a rich and diverse wine-producing region, offering a multitude of Appellations d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) that testify to the richness and authenticity of its wines.

With its picturesque landscapes and unique terroirs, this region is full of winegrowing treasures to explore. Discover the AOCs of the South-West and immerse yourself in the world of flavors and terroirs that characterize them.

AOC Jurançon and AOC Jurançon Sec

Located in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques region, AOC Jurançon is renowned for its exceptional sweet white wines. Made from Petit Manseng, Gros Manseng and Courbu grapes, Jurançon wines offer a palette of flavors ranging from exotic fruit notes to citrus aromas, all combined with a lovely freshness. These sweet wines are perfect with desserts or as aperitifs.

AOC Jurançon Sec is a variation of the Jurançon appellation, with a focus on dry white wines. The region's winemakers have harnessed the full potential of local grape varieties to produce refined, expressive dry white wines. AOC Jurançon Sec wines are distinguished by their freshness, liveliness and balance. They give off aromas of citrus, white-fleshed fruit and flowers, with a subtle minerality. On the palate, these wines are lively and harmonious, with well-integrated acidity and a lingering finish.

AOC Pacherenc du Vic-Bilh :

Located in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques and Gers regions, AOC Pacherenc du Vic-Bilh is renowned for its excellent dry and sweet white wines. Gros Manseng, Petit Manseng and Courbu grapes dominate the blending of these wines, bringing complexity and elegance. The dry wines reveal fruity and floral aromas, with a refreshing acidity, while the sweet wines stand out for their notes of candied fruit, honey and spices. Pacherenc du Vic-Bilh wines are the perfect companions for refined dishes and gourmet desserts.

AOC Irouléguy :

Located in the Basque country, AOC Irouléguy produces red, white and rosé wines of great finesse. Tannat, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon give rise to powerful, tannic red wines with aromas of black fruit and spices. White wines, made from grape varieties such as Gros Manseng and Petit Courbu, are characterized by floral aromas, freshness and vivacity. Irouléguy wines are a testament to the Basque winegrowing heritage, and go wonderfully well with regional dishes.

AOC Saint-Mont :

The Saint-Mont AOC, located in the Gers and Hautes-Pyrénées regions, produces white, red and rosé wines with character. Native grape varieties such as Petit Courbu, Gros Manseng, Petit Manseng and Tannat give Saint-Mont wines their unique identity. The white wines seduce with their floral aromas, freshness and minerality. The red wines stand out for their elegant tannic structure and red fruit notes. Saint-Mont wines reflect the region's traditional know-how and authenticity.

AOC Côtes de Gascogne :

The Côtes de Gascogne region, located mainly in the Gers, produces fresh, accessible white, red and rosé wines. Colombard, Ugni Blanc and Gros Manseng dominate the white wines, which are distinguished by their fruity aromas and liveliness. Red wines, meanwhile, are made from grape varieties such as Tannat, Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, offering supple, fruity wines. Côtes de Gascogne wines are perfect for summer meals and social gatherings.

AOC Cahors :

Located in the Lot region, the emblematic AOC Cahors is renowned for its intense, elegant red wines, produced mainly from the Malbec grape variety. Cahors wines are distinguished by their deep color, black fruit aromas and powerful tannins. They offer a beautiful structure and long persistence on the palate. Discover the unique expression of Malbec in this historic region.

AOC Gaillac :

Located in the Tarn region of France, AOC Gaillac is an appellation renowned for its diversity of grape varieties and its wines with singular personalities. Whether red, white or rosé, Gaillac wines reflect the richness of its terroir. From the autochthonous Braucol grape to more well-known varieties such as Syrah, Merlot or Sauvignon Blanc, each wine expresses its own typicity and offers a unique aromatic palette.

AOC Fronton :

Located near Toulouse, AOC Fronton is renowned for its light, fruity red wines. Mainly made from the Négrette grape variety, these wines are distinguished by their red fruit aromas, freshness and suppleness on the palate. They offer a subtle balance of fruit and spice, making each tasting unique.

 

As you explore these South-Western AOCs, you'll discover all the diversity and richness of the region's wines. From the mellow white wines of Jurançon to the fresh, fruity wines of Côtes de Gascogne, the elegant wines of Saint-Mont, the treasures of Pacherenc du Vic-Bilh and the authenticity of Irouléguy, each AOC promises an exquisite oenological journey. Take the time to taste these unique wines, immerse yourself in their history and appreciate the expertise of the passionate winemakers who produce them. Southwest France opens the doors to a world of exceptional wines, to be savored without moderation.

 

 

 

 

Sophie GOUA