AOC Côteaux de Quercy

History of the AOC Coteaux du Quercy

The vineyards of Coteaux du Quercy, nestled in the heart of Southwest France between the Cahors and Gaillac appellations, have a rich viticultural tradition dating back to Roman times. The controlled designation of origin AOC Coteaux du Quercy has been officially recognized since 1990, affirming the identity of these red and rosé wines, characterized by Cabernet Franc.

Climate and Terroir of the AOC Coteaux du Quercy

• Climate: The climate of Coteaux du Quercy is a degraded oceanic type, favored by the influence of Atlantic winds, providing generous sunshine and well-distributed rainfall to the vineyards.
• Soils: The appellation extends over diversified soils, mainly limestone plateaus and gravel terraces, offering the vines ideal conditions to ripen and develop complex aromatic richness.

Key Grape Varieties of the AOC Coteaux du Quercy

The grape varieties of AOC Coteaux du Quercy include Cabernet Franc (dominant), Merlot, Malbec (also known as Côt), Tannat, and Gamay for both red and rosé wines. Wines from this appellation must be blended with at least two of these grape varieties, with Cabernet Franc accounting for a minimum of 40% to 60%.

Style of Wines AOC Coteaux du Quercy

Rosé Wine: Rosés from Coteaux du Quercy have a pale pink and shiny robe. On the nose, they reveal aromas of red fruits and citrus. On the palate, they are fresh and fruity.

Red Wine: Intense ruby ​​color. The bouquet of red wines from the AOC Coteaux du Quercy combines notes of ripe red and black fruits (blackcurrant, raspberry) with undergrowth. On the palate, they are fleshy and full-bodied, and they mellow with age.

Best Food Pairings with AOC Coteaux du Quercy Wines

Here are some recipe ideas to accompany a bottle of wine from a domain or chateau in AOC Coteaux du Quercy in rosé and red:

• Rosé Wine: Grilled chorizo, Périgord salad, appetizers.
• Red Wine: Duck breast, duck confit, cassoulet.