Wines of Southwest France: A Sommeliers Guide to Cahors, Madiran, Jurançon, and Beyond

Reactive Publishing

Southwest France is one of the most distinctive and underappreciated wine regions in the country. Beyond the well-known names of Bordeaux and Burgundy lie powerful, characterful wines shaped by rugged landscapes, ancient grape varieties, and a strong sense of place.

The Wines of Southwest France is a clear, practical guide to the region's most important appellations and the wines that define them. It focuses especially on Cahors, Madiran, and Jurançon, while also exploring the broader landscape of Southwest France, its lesser-known appellations, traditional grape varieties, and evolving styles.

Readers will find:

• Clear profiles of the major appellations and their signature wines
• Insight into the key grape varieties, including Malbec (Côt), Tannat, Petit Manseng, and Gros Manseng
• Guidance on style, aging potential, food pairing, and how these wines fit into a broader cellar or restaurant list
• Context on the region's history, terroir, and current producers without unnecessary technical jargon

Written for wine drinkers, sommeliers, buyers, and travelers who want a reliable, no-nonsense introduction to the area, this guide prioritizes clarity and usefulness over exhaustive lists or promotional language. It is designed to help readers understand what makes these wines distinctive and how to approach them with confidence.