The Bergerac wine region, crossed from east to west by the river Dordogne and numerous tributaries (such as the Brajaud at the foot of Chateau Jeanbrun), covers an area equal to 12,800 ha and has over 1,200 vineyards producing thirteen different AOCs.
Throughout the Bergerac wine region, all vineyards can produce all types of Bergerac wine:
- Bergerac Rouge
- Cotes de Bergerac Rouge
- Bergerac Sec
- Bergerac Rose
- Cotes de Bergerac Blanc
*On the north bank:
Pecharmant
The very specific taste of Pecharmant comes from its soil known as “the sand and gravel of the Perigord” which contains a deep layer of ferrigenous clay called “Tran”. Pecharmant is a long lasting wine with strong charm and intense aroma.
Montravel
The area Montravel is divided into four distinct appellations:
Montravel: a dry white wine characterised by an aroma of white flowers, often highlighted by fines lees. It has a generous structure.
Cotes de Montravel and Haut Montravel: with a beautiful complex aroma, the “Cotes” display an agreeable lightness whereas the “Hauts” are sweeter. Suave and of great concentrate, they are ideal for laying down.
Montravel Rouge: The 13th AOC of Bergerac created in 2001 is noted for its red wine which respects very demanding production conditions. It is a wine for laying down whose flavour blooms after being bottled.
Rosette
Only available as a sweet wine.
*On the southern bank, only two appellations exist:
Monbazillac
The most well known appellation for Bergerac exported throughout the world for centuries. This great sweet wine is obtained through late harvesting by hand in successive pickings (at least three).
Saussignac
Now known for exceptional sweet wine, Saussiganc comes from grapes picked successively in very small quantities. The wines are complex and concentrated with a particular freshness.
The sub-layers of Gageac-Rouillax, part of this appellation, contain the same limestone as Castillon, providing minerals to the roots of the vines, essential for the rich aroma of the grapes.