Southwest France Flashcards
Learn the geography, grape varieties, climate, soil, wine styles, and producers of Southwest France.
Many of the grapes used in the Dordogne are the same ones you’d see in which other French wine region?
Bordeaux
In what direction is the Dordogne region in relation to Entre-Deux-Mers?
East (further inland)
What is the climate of the Dordogne?
Similar to Bordeaux (moderate maritime) though it has less maritime influence.
What are the two major appellations of the Dordogne?
- Bergerac
- Monbazillac
What styles of wine does Bergerac make?
Dry, still red + white wines
- same grapes as Bordeaux
What style of wine is made in Monbazillac?
Sweet, botrytis-affected wines made from Sauvignon Blanc + Sémillon
A good alternate to Sauternes
What river runs through the Bergerac AOP?
The Dordogne River
In what direction is Cahors in relation to Bordeaux?
East (further inland)
Which river runs through the Cahors AOP?
The Lot River
What is the most important grape in Cahors?
What are the other two grapes planted in Cahors?
Most important: Malbec
Other two: Merlot, Tannat
What appellation in the Southwest of France was historically known for its “black wines”?
Cahors AOP
Made with at least 70% Malbec
What is the general profile of a wine from Cahors?
- Deep color
- High tannins
- Concentrated dark berry fruits
- Notes of cedar, oak, earth
- Ageable
What is the most important IGP of South West France?
Côtes de Gascogne IGP
What is the principal grape in Côtes de Gascogne IGP?
What is it like?
Ugni Blanc
Light body, dry, green apple-y
What is the principal grape in Madiran AOP?
What is it like?
Tannat
- Deep color
- High tannin
