Vinalia x Château de Tiregand, Pécharmant

Château de Tiregand, nestled in the Pécharmant appellation in South West France, boasts a rich history that stretches back to the 16th century. Originally celebrated for its white varieties cultivated from the vine material of Château d’Yquem, a devastating frost in 1956 prompted François de Saint-Exupéry—relative of renowned World War II pilot and author of The Little Prince—to introduce red varietals. In 2022, Christophe Piat acquired the estate and, alongside his family, embarked on a journey to convert it to organic farming.

Bergerac, known as the land of 1,000 castles, is rich in history and gastronomy, notably famous for its black truffles and association with Cyrano de Bergerac. Historically linked to Bordeaux, Bergerac produced esteemed wines until the 17th century, facing various political factors including the revocation of the Edict of Nantes. Today, Bergerac wines are quality competitors to Bordeaux, featuring a variety of styles, including classic Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot blends. The region also boasts renowned dessert wines from Monbazillac, greatly similar to those of Sauternes.

Merlot is France’s most planted grape variety, as well as one of the most cultivated in the world. Merlot is celebrated for suave, velvety tannins and rich, plummy blue and black fruit flavors. While it yields excellent monovarietal wines, Merlot also features in several classic blends. In Bordeaux’s Right Bank, as well as in Bergerac’s Pécharmant, Merlot takes the spotlight, supported primarily by its parent Cabernet Franc, which delivers fresh violet and white pepper notes.