Wine Tours in the French South-West

Appellations and wines in South-West France

Often eclipsed by Bordeaux, the South-West’s wines have been growing in popularity thanks to their quality and unique terroirs in Cahors, Madiran, Jurançon and Armagnac.

Famous for its full-bodied reds, Cahors is known as the "black wine" region due to its rich, tannic and age-worthy wines, often with deep, dark fruit aromas. Madiran, in the Hautes-Pyrénées region only produces red wine, which earned the reputation as the wine of choice for pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago as far back as the 11^th century. The dark berry flavours and earthy undertones provide wines that age well. Jurançon, located in the Pyrénées foothills, produces both dry and sweet wines. The sweet wines are especially known for their vibrant acidity and aromatic complexity. Armagnac, also part of the South-West viticultural region but better known for its brandy and Floc de Gascogne than its wine, is well worth a visit.

The region’s red wines are typically made from Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Tannat grapes, while white wines tend to feature varietals like Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon and Muscadelle. The region also has a few unique local grapes, such as Gros Manseng Petit Manseng (for white wines) and Fer Servadou (a red grape).

Check out the culinary scene in the South-West

The South-West of France is a culinary goldmine, with hardy dishes that pair wonderfully with the local wines. Cassoulet (a rich stew of sausage, pork and beans), foie gras and duck confit are considered the basics in the region. Local cow and goat cheeses, such as Ossau-Iraty, Rocamadour or Tomme des Pyrénées, also accompany the region’s wines beautifully. Some definite must-tastes include the truffles known as the “black diamonds of Perigord”, Espelette peppers and roasted lamb accompanied by a bottle-aged red wine from Cahors or Madiran. A great dessert idea is the traditional cream- or cherry-filled pastry called gâteau basque paired with an Irouléguy Blanc. And for a nightcap, why not enjoy a glass of Armagnac with plums from Agen!

Highlights in the South-West

History buffs won’t want to miss the numerous medieval cities throughout the region and tours of historic Armagnac houses are a great way to learn about the distillation process. For nature lovers, the stunning landscapes along the Camino de Santiago (also known as the Way of St. James) are unforgettable. And if you’re in the mood for a game of golf, make sure to visit the Pau Golf Club, the oldest on the European continent!

How to reach the South-West of France

By train: The region is served by high-speed (TGV) trains, so it’s easily accessible from Paris and other parts of France. Click here for French train timetables and fares.

By plane: Accessible via major cities with airports: Bordeaux (international), Toulouse and Pau.

By car: France’s South-West region is easily reached via major motorways and toll-free national roads, then you can drive through the foothills and villages to the vineyards on smaller country roads.