IGP Périgord wines awarded at the Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge

I.G.P.

The Périgord protected geographical indication covers the Dordogne department, in southwestern France, along with the commune of Salviac in the Lot. The area lies at the transition between the eroded Massif Central and the Aquitaine sedimentary basin, on limestone plateaus shaped by karstic phenomena and cut through by the Dordogne valley. The climate is a moderated oceanic climate, benefiting from Atlantic influences, with a more pronounced thermal range and less rainfall than along the coast. The vines grow on well-exposed, well-ventilated limestone plateaus with free-draining soils. The grape varieties combine Aquitaine and local varieties: merlot and the cabernets, franc and sauvignon, dominate for red and rosé wines, while sauvignon blanc and sémillon, sometimes complemented by chardonnay, make up the white wines. The vineyard maintains longstanding historical and commercial ties with the neighbouring Bordeaux vineyard, while retaining its own identity shaped by its limestone plateau landscape.

The wines of this appellation

Périgord produces still red, rosé and white wines. The reds, drawing on the complementarity of merlot and the cabernets, are marked by suppleness and roundness, carried by tannins that are sometimes slightly grainy and give them character. The rosés show a fruity nose and pleasant freshness on the finish. The dry whites, based on sauvignon blanc and sémillon, are fruity and light on the palate, with good volume and a touch of acidity on the finish. The free-draining limestone soils favour freshness in the whites and rosés, while good phenolic ripeness under Atlantic influence gives the reds their characteristic tannins. Their supple structure lends itself to drinking within the first few years after harvest. The reds pair well with red meats and slow-cooked dishes from the Périgord region, the rosés suit charcuterie and composed salads, and the whites are enjoyed as an aperitif or with fish and seafood.