Madiran Wine
Madiran is an appellation for robust red wines from the village of Madiran, in the south-west of France. Madiran represents the rustic character of southern French wine. Its dry, tannic reds complement the white wines (both sweet and dry) of the Pacherenc du Vic-Bilh appellation and of Jurancon, 25 miles (40km) to the south.
The terroirs of Madiran are divided into two clear types: those on the higher ground of the hills, and those in the valleys and on lower-lying land. The flinty, sedimentary rock of the hills becomes very hot and dry in summer, creating growing conditions which are quite distinct from the heavier, moisture-retaining clay soils of the valleys. The two soil types are reflected in the wines they eventually produce and many Madiran winemakers blend them together to achieve a balanced style.
