South-West

About this region

France's South-West (Sud-Ouest) is a sprawling, diverse collection of appellations between Bordeaux and the Pyrenees that has long lived in Bordeaux's shadow. Among the highlights: Cahors, the original home of Malbec (called Côt or Auxerrois here), produces structured, dark reds from limestone plateaux above the Lot; Madiran built around the tannic Tannat; Jurançon makes some of France's finest sweet and dry whites from Petit Manseng and Gros Manseng; and Bergerac mirrors Bordeaux at gentler prices. Indigenous varieties dominate — a region for adventurous drinkers.

Information

Country: France
Climate: Oceanic

Frequently asked questions

What is the South-West wine region known for?

France's South-West (Sud-Ouest) is a sprawling, diverse collection of appellations between Bordeaux and the Pyrenees that has long lived in Bordeaux's shadow. Among the highlights: Cahors, the original home of Malbec (called Côt or Auxerrois here), produces structured, dark reds from limestone plateaux above the Lot;…