IGP Vin de Pays de l'Atlantique

History of the IGP Atlantique Appellation

The Protected Geographical Indication (IGP) Atlantique, or Vin de Pays de l'Atlantique, was created in 2006 and covers a vast geographical area. This appellation spans several departments in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, including Gironde, Charente-Maritime, Dordogne, and Deux-Sèvres. Relatively young, the IGP Atlantique appellation aims to provide producers with greater freedom in crafting their wines while ensuring exemplary quality.

Climate and Terroir of the IGP Atlantique

Climate: IGP Atlantique benefits from a climate heavily influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, from which it derives its name. This temperate oceanic climate brings mild winters and relatively cool summers, with rainfall well-distributed throughout the year.
Sols: The terroir of IGP Atlantique is varied, with soils ranging from the gravel of Gironde to the limestone of Charente-Maritime, and clay-limestone or loamy soils in other areas.

Grape Varieties of IGP Atlantique

IGP Atlantique allows for a wide variety of grape varieties, both red and white. For red and rosé wines, the most cultivated varieties are Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec. For white wines, the dominant grape varieties are Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle.

Wine Styles of IGP Atlantique

Red Wine: Deep purple in color. The red wines of IGP Atlantique reveal aromas of ripe red fruits (cherry, strawberry, raspberry), often accompanied by spicy notes. On the palate, these wines are balanced, with refreshing acidity and smooth tannins.
Rosé Wine: The rosé wines of IGP Atlantique display a light color, with pale pink hues. The nose is dominated by aromas of small red fruits (currant, raspberry) accompanied by floral notes. These rosés are lively and light, perfect for sunny days.
White Wine: Pale yellow with green highlights. The aromatic profile includes exotic fruits, citrus (grapefruit, lemon), and sometimes floral notes. On the palate, IGP Atlantique white wines are fresh and fruity, with crisp acidity.

Best Food Pairings with IGP Atlantique Wines

Here are our best ideas for dishes to pair with a bottle of red, white, or rosé wine from a domain or château in IGP Atlantique:

White Wine: Sea bream ceviche, oven-baked oysters
Rosé Wine: Salmon sashimi, grilled prawns
Red Wine: Neapolitan pizza, homemade burger, tapas

Frequently asked questions about IGP Atlantique

Where is IGP Atlantique?

IGP Atlantique, or Vin de Pays de l'Atlantique, covers several departments of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, including Gironde and Charente-Maritime. Created in 2006, it also extends over Dordogne and Deux-Sèvres, under a temperate oceanic climate.

Which grapes are used for IGP Atlantique?

Reds and rosés from IGP Atlantique are mainly based on Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. The whites come from Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon and Muscadelle.

What to serve with an IGP Atlantique wine?

A white IGP Atlantique goes with sea bream ceviche or baked oysters, a rosé with salmon sashimi or grilled prawns. The red, supple and fruity, suits pizza, a homemade burger or tapas.

What is the difference between IGP Atlantique and AOC Bordeaux?

IGP Atlantique reaches beyond Gironde and gives growers more freedom than AOC Bordeaux in making their wines.

Where can you buy IGP Atlantique wine direct from the grower?

On Avenue des Vins, you buy IGP Atlantique wine direct from the grower. Every bottle is shipped by the château or estate that made it, with no middleman, and delivered to your door.

Explore also: AOC Bordeaux Supérieur - IGP Périgord - AOC Bordeaux