AOP Tursan Blanc

History of the AOC Tursan Appellation

Nestled in the heart of southwestern France, extending from the Madiran vineyards, the AOC Tursan is an appellation known for the diversity and quality of its red, white, and rosé wines. Tursan wines quickly found international success. In fact, they were exported to England as early as the 12th century, and even to Andalusia between the 15th and 18th centuries. Officially recognized in 2011, this appellation derives its unique character from the region's ancient winemaking traditions, blending historical expertise with innovation.

Climate and Terroir of the AOC Tursan Appellation

Climate: Tursan has a typically oceanic climate, with nuances tempered by the Pyrenees to the south, promoting optimal grape ripening.
Soils: The terroir of Tursan is varied, ranging from tawny sand to clay and gravel. This geological diversity is a major asset for the appellation, allowing for the production of wines with diverse profiles.

The Baroque Grape: Iconic Variety of AOC Tursan

The AOC Tursan produces mainly red wines, along with rosés and original white wines, often made from the local Baroque grape variety. The wines are typically blends of various red and white grapes, with the main varieties being:

• Baroque (white wine)
• Gros Manseng (white wine)
• Petit Manseng (white wine)
• Tannat (red and rosé wine)
• Cabernet Sauvignon (red and rosé wine)
• Cabernet Franc (red and rosé wine)
• Pinenc (red and rosé wine).

Style of AOC Tursan Wines

Red wine: Deep red color with aromas of ripe black fruits, prunes, licorice, and leather. On the palate, AOC Tursan red wines are often full-bodied and tannic, with good aging potential (5 to 10 years).
White wine: Light straw-yellow color. The nose reveals aromas of white flowers, yellow fruits, lemon, and verbena. On the palate, AOC Tursan white wines are typically lively, fresh, and highly aromatic.
Rosé wine: With a pale pink color and notes of red fruits, candies, and flowers, Tursan rosé wines charm with their freshness and minerality.

Best Food and Wine Pairings with AOC Tursan Wines

Here are some tips for the best food and wine pairings with a bottle from a domain or château in AOC Tursan, whether red, rosé, or white:

• Red wine: Duck confit, sausage with truffade, quail with prunes
• Rosé wine : Paella, tomato tart
• White wine : Gratin from the Landes, garbure with Bayonne ham, fried calamari

Frequently asked questions about Tursan Blanc

Where is the Tursan appellation?

The Tursan appellation lies in the Landes, south-east of Mont-de-Marsan, next to the Madiran vineyard. It covers about 450 hectares across 36 villages.

Which grape is used for Tursan Blanc?

Tursan Blanc showcases Baroque, a local white grape, often blended with Gros Manseng or Petit Manseng.

Is Tursan Blanc dry?

Tursan Blanc is a dry, crisp white wine with aromas of white fruit, verbena and lime blossom. On the palate it is lively, fresh and very aromatic.

What to serve with Tursan Blanc?

Tursan Blanc goes with a Landes gratin, garbure with Bayonne ham or fried squid.

How old is the Tursan appellation?

The Tursan appellation was officially recognised in 2011, but its wines are old: they were exported to England as early as the 12th century, then to Andalusia.

Where can you buy Tursan Blanc direct from the grower?

On Avenue des Vins, you buy Tursan Blanc direct from the grower. Every bottle is shipped by the Landes estate that made it, with no middleman, and delivered to your door.

Explore also: AOC Tursan red - AOC Jurançon Sec - AOC Pacherenc du Vic-Bilh Sec