Côtes-de-Bergerac

The Côtes-de-Bergerac appellation is one of the appellations of the Bergerac region recognized by the decree of September 11, 1936, for red or white wines produced in the Bergerac district in accordance with a production area established and defined by the INAO.

The Côtes-de-Bergerac vineyard is crossed from east to west by the Dordogne River and irrigated by many of its tributaries. Geologically, the region’s outcrops are primarily from the Tertiary and Quaternary periods. The Côtes-de-Bergerac vineyards extend across hilly landscapes (limestone “boulbènes” and “terreforts” on the slopes of Monbazillac) and plateaus (Tertiary limestone plateaus and Quaternary gravel) that receive ample sunshine, on both banks of the Dordogne River. Here, distinctive terroirs are perfectly showcased by estates such as Château Tour des Gendres, Le Vignoble des Verdots, and Domaine de l’Ancienne Cure.

Côtes-de-Bergerac red wines are made from the finest selections of each grower and are most often aged in oak barrels. They represent a fuller-bodied style of wine than red Bergerac, rather than a specific geographical area. Côtes-de-Bergerac wines are subject to lower yield limits than Bergerac. Grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot Noir, Côt, and Malbec give Côtes-de-Bergerac red wines their intense, dark color. Structured and complex, they feature aromas of candied fruits such as prunes. Their exceptional tannic structure gives them excellent aging potential. They reach their full potential after about 5 or 6 years and can age for another 5 to 10 years, depending on the vintage. Côtes-de-Bergerac white wines are divided into three categories—semi-dry, semi-sweet, and sweet—based on their sugar content. Côtes-de-Bergerac Moelleux account for the bulk of production. They are made from a blend of three classic grape varieties—Sémillon, Sauvignon, and Muscadelle—with Sémillon being the primary variety.