The distinctive feature of the vineyards in the Southwest is that they benefit from a multitude of native grape varieties. Madiran and Pacherenc du Vic-Bilh are no exception to the rule as there are 6 native grape varieties.
grape varieties
Tannat
Tannat is characterized by its big winged bunches of tight round berries and a long stalk. Its grapes are famous for being rich in polyphenols; this productive, though late variety is appreciated for the quality and the generosity of its tannins.
grape varieties
Fer Servadou
Fer Servadou, also called Pinenc, Mansois, Braucol, is a grape variety with medium sized bunches of firm and juicy berries that is characterized by its herbaceous taste. It is resistant to frosts and diseases. It is temperamental and benefits from a late maturation, although its growth speeds up and it matures fairly quickly.
grape varieties
Petit Manseng
A variety used mainly in the production of sweet Pacherenc du Vic-Bilh because its skin is tougher and therefore more resistant for the ripening of the grape. In fact, it is very resistant to botrytis (fungus) which means that it can be allowed to stay on the vine for a long time, thus encouraging the raisining of the grape musts extremely concentrated in sugar with significant acidity.
grape varieties
Gros Manseng
A grape used mostly in the production of dry Pacherenc du Vic-Bilh because its skin is not too hard. The grape produces lots of pulp and juice, thanks to its medium sized bunches and small berries resistant to grey rot * (*also called Botrytis is the drying up of the grape by the action of the fungus). It has a good alcohol potential while maintaining a strong acidity.
grape varieties
Petit Courbu
Characterised by short bunches with little golden berries at maturity. It allows for the production of fine and aromatic wines and can reinforce the complexity and improve the balance of dry white wines as well as the sweet ones.
grape varieties
Arrufiac
A white variety with plenty of vigor and though sensitive to mildew and black-rot, it is reputed for its distinctive aromas. It is characterized by large bunches of small berries.
Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Franc is a Bordeaux grape, characterized by small bunches. It produces fruity wines, perfumed with fine tannins and subtle aromas of small red fruits and spices softer than those of Cabernet Sauvignon. Blended with Tannat it brings suppleness.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is the noble grape variety from Bordeaux which is a later variety than the Cabernet Franc. It is a vigorous and low yielding variety with great aromatic richness of dark fruit, violets and raspberries.