South West

The South West region, renowned for its wine production, is a testament to the deeply rooted viticulture heritage of France. This region is recognized for its 27 AOC (Appellation d'origine contrôlée), a testament to the diverse and quality wines produced here. The unique climate of the South West, influenced by the soothing effects of the sea, results in distinct micro-climates, each contributing to the variety of wines produced in this region. The area near the Pyrenees is characterized by its cool, wet winters and warm summer Atlantic currents, while the terrain is marked by clayey and stony soil. Here, the Lauzet, Camaralet, and Manseng vines flourish, producing white wines known for their soft, enjoyable flavors. The Malbec grape, harvested in the region of Cahors, gives life to robust and potent wines, thanks to the clay, silicon and limestone-rich soil nourished by the River Lot. The South West is not only known for its wines but also its world-famous distillates, Cognac and Armagnac, made from the 'Ugni Blanc' grape. These distillates, while sharing a common origin, differ in their production methods and aging processes, resulting in distinct flavors and characteristics.

Region	South West
Country	France
IGT	Vin de France
Climate and soil	The South West boasts a diverse climate, primarily influenced by the calming effects of the sea. This results in a variety of micro-climates, each contributing to the unique characteristics of the wines produced here. The area near the Pyrenees is known for its cool, wet winters and warm Atlantic summer currents, creating ideal conditions for vine growth. The terrain here is predominantly clayey and stony, providing a fertile ground for the Lauzet, Camaralet, and Manseng vines. In Cahors, the soil is rich in clay, silicon and limestone, nourished by the River Lot, which contributes to the robust and potent characteristics of the Malbec wines produced in this region. The glacial soils between Monein and Jurancon, surrounded by sheltering woods, support the growth of vines that produce white wines known for their soft, enjoyable flavors.