Moving to the Dordogne, I quickly discovered that the Bergerac wine region has much to offer beyond what’s widely known from Bordeaux. Becoming semi-local, I’ve had the chance to explore and appreciate this area’s incredible wines, each with unique stories and flavors that have, over time, become part of my table at Le Suquet. Among all my tastings, two standouts have become personal favorites: the sweet wines of Monbazillac and the smooth reds of Pécharmant.
Monbazillac: Dordogne’s Hidden Treasure
One of the most exciting discoveries since moving to the Dordogne has been Monbazillac. Often overshadowed by more famous sweet wines like Sauternes, Monbazillac has its own unique character—rich, honeyed, and surprisingly versatile. These wines come from a small area south of Bergerac, where a combination of climate and terroir brings a lovely balance of sweetness and acidity to the grapes. It’s a wine that pairs beautifully with local specialties such as foie gras, blue cheese, or even desserts.
A glass of Monbazillac is an experience in itself. The aromas of apricot, honey, and almonds invite you in, and each sip brings a depth of flavor that’s both smooth and complex. Over time, I’ve come to appreciate Monbazillac not only for its taste but for its status as an underrated gem, embodying the essence of the Dordogne in every bottle.
Pécharmant: A Red Worth Discovering
While Monbazillac shines in the realm of sweet wines, my go-to red in the Bergerac region has to be Pécharmant, especially the smooth Château de Corbiac. Pécharmant is an appellation that produces reds with a beautiful complexity—a bit earthier and bolder than typical Bordeaux wines, yet with a distinctive Dordogne warmth. It’s a wine that speaks of terroir: the clay and gravel soils, rich in iron, impart a unique minerality to the wine, balancing well with its dark fruit flavors.
Château de Corbiac, in particular, has become a favorite. Smooth, elegant, and full of depth, it’s a wine I find myself returning to again and again, especially when paired with local dishes like duck confit or a rich cheese platter. There’s a timeless quality to Pécharmant reds, and they age beautifully, becoming even more complex over time.
Inviting Exploration of Bergerac Wines
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply curious, I invite you to explore the Bergerac wine region and support its local producers. For those visiting us at Le Suquet, I’m always happy to share a bottle or recommend some memorable vineyards in the area. These wines—whether the honeyed elegance of Monbazillac or the smooth depth of Pécharmant—have become an irreplaceable part of my experience here in the Dordogne. Each bottle captures something of the region’s soul, offering a taste of Dordogne life that’s hard to find elsewhere.
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