With its proximity to Bordeaux, wine production in the Dordogne Valley is, like food production, a major speciality. Less famous than its giant neighbour, the wine produced here may be slightly lesser known, but it is equally good and gaining rapidly in international recognition. Close to the major hubs of production around Bergerac and Cahors, through to boutique wineries in between, the Dordogne Valley is a smorgasbord choice of premium wines for both the connoisseur or for someone just partial to the good stuff.
With its rich soil and perfect grape growing conditions, the Dordogne summer sun sets off the rapid onset of ripening, nurturing the grapes to harvest. It makes for great wine- a perfect complement to the traditional gourmet produce of the area such as magret de canard or local Quercy lamb.
You will find the major wines of the region on restaurant menus and in bars throughout the valley. They break down roughly into the two major wine growing areas-Bergerac and Cahors. In between are some wines from dynamic boutique vineyards whose reputation for quality surpasses their small size.
