Wine Intinerary

  Introduction

  Alphabetical Listing

 
  Béarn Bellocq, wine from the Pyrenean foothills 
 

The wine-growing region
The Pyrenean foothills offer steep rises and sharp drops where many different vineyards thrive. The Bearn vineyard lies between the Pau and Oloron rivers, benefitting from a mild oceanic micro-climate.

 

   
Vine varieties
Tannat is the most widely used grape for red and rosé wine, giving it body and structure.
Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon bring their own smoothness and bouquet. White wines are made from a combination of Mansengs and Raffiat de Moncade, only grown in the Bellocq vineyard.

 

  A brief history...
The Romans -experienced wine-makers- were the first to plant vines in the hills between Salies-de Béarn and the village of Bellocq.
In the XVIIth century, protestants exiled in England and Holland promoted trade towards northern Europe, boosting vineyard exploitation.
The Béarn label of origin (AOC) was created in 1975 and the Béarn Bellocq AOC in 1990.

Vineyards and the Orthez steeple

 

   
A wine waiter's tips...
The red wine (serve between 14 and 16°C) is a full-bodied wine to accompany game, roast meat and dishes with sauce. The rosé (serve between 8 and 10°C), with its red fruit aroma, is suitable for grilled meat. The white wine hints of fruit and mountain broom.
 

  Address book 

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