The region’s abundance of high quality, affordable, authentic wines is a true testament to the passion and character of those who craft them and to the exceptional richness and diversity of terroir in South West France. The South West region of France stretches from the Atlantic coast to the city of Toulouse – the region’s capital – and from the foot of the Pyrénées to the Massif Central mountain range. The fourth biggest appellation in France in terms of volume and sales worldwide, South West France offers everything from red, white and rosé still wines to sparkling wines.
Boasting an unparalleled range of wine styles and flavors, South West France includes 18 appellations, of which Madiran, Gaillac, Fronton, Cahors, Jurançon, Saint-Mont and Irouléguy are the best known, and a total of 22 Vins de Pays, of which Côtes de Gascogne is the most familiar in the U.S. While internationally recognized red grape varieties such as Malbec, Tannat and Merlot are home to South West France, the region’s wines can also be characterized by the inclusion of other indigenous varieties such as Négrette, Duras, Colombard, Len de Lel, Fer Servadou, Petit and Gros Manseng.
The natural wines of South West France reflect a way of healthy living that is inherent in the region’s culture. In his recent, highly acclaimed book The Red Wine Diet, British scientist Roger Corder revealed that certain red wines from the South West of France are more beneficial than others for living a longer, healthier life. Steeped in history, a richness of terroir and centuries of winemaking know-how, South West France produces a plethora of authentic, convivial and character-driven wines that exemplify quality, diversity, and value.
For more information, please visit: www.france-sudouest.com |
