 Aquitaine CuisineThis exquisite region of France stretches from the Basque country and Pyrenees, the Atlantic to the west, mountains and valleys to the south and east. The mild climate is ideal for the production of fruits (especially grapes!) and vegetables. The sea offers a bounty of seafood, while the marshes and forests provide game and mushrooms. So it’s no surprise that delicacies abound throughout the region.
Dine on fresh salmon, shad and crayfish. Steak lovers must try an authentic entrecôte à la bordelaise, grilled over vine cuttings. Try the local oysters whilst enjoying the view across to Cap Ferrat from Arcachon. Indulge your sweet tooth on delicious tourtières (fruit pies).
Duck and goose prevail in the Dordogne, especially foie gras, rich pâtés and grilled magrets (duck breast fillets). Also look for fragrant cèpes, morels and 'black diamond' truffles. Other specialities include lamb, game, trout and delicate goat’s cheese from Rocamadour.
Not as well known as the classic Bordeaux, Bergerac produces excellent wines - especially red Pécharmant and sweet white Monbazillac. The 'black' wine of Cahors is a perfect companion to the region's rich cuisine, and also comes in a cocktail with cassis and local walnut eau de vie.
Sarlat has one of the best markets in France. Look out for walnuts in many guises: walnut oil, walnut eau de vie, walnut cheese, walnut tarts; the Dordogne produces more walnuts than any other region in France.
A villa in Aquitaine will help you fall in love with France. Aquitaine vineyards are simply sublime, and to discover what is new on the market you must visit le Masion du Vin in Bordeaux. While wines in Bordeaux are well known, trying Bergerac wines and Medoc wines will not disappoint your palate. Once you have savoured Aquitaine’s cuisine and wine, head to the Medoc beaches to unwind, or try the more active pursuit of surfing in Biarritz. Thank you for perusing our Aquitaine Tourist Information Guide. Enjoy your holiday in Aquitaine! |