Côtes de Gascogne is a wine region in southwest France, chiefly in the Gers department, stretching also into parts of Landes and Lot‑et‑Garonne. It overlaps largely with the Armagnac area but focuses on producing still wines (non‑fortified, non‑sparkling), under the Protected Geographical Indication (IGP) classification. Whites are its signature, though rosés and reds are also made. The wines are known for freshness, aromatic intensity, and for being excellent value internationally.

In Côtes de Gascogne, wine tourism tends to be relaxed, personable, and tied closely to rural life. Many producers are small‑scale or cooperatives, and tastings often happen in countryside cellars rather than grand châteaux. The landscape is gentle: rolling vineyards, bastide towns, sunflower fields, and orchard‑lined lanes. There are wine‑routes that allow visitors to explore villages in the Gers, visit wine growers, combine vineyard walks with markets and local festivals. Because it’s less famous (in the sense of prestige) than some regions, there’s often more openness and authenticity in the visitor experience.

The gastronomy of the region is deeply tied to Gascony’s reputation for rich, flavoursome rural food. Dishes like duck confit, foie gras, roasted meats, charcuterie, hearty stews, local cheeses, and produce of the land (garlic, onions, fresh herbs) are common. Because many of the whites of Côtes de Gascogne are crisp and aromatic, they pair superbly with seafood, salads, lighter meats, and rich poultry dishes. Rosés and lighter reds go well with grilled meats or rustic fare. Traditional markets, country inns, and farm tables are good opportunities to experience wine and food together.

The white wines dominate (about 85‑90% of production) in Côtes de Gascogne, using varieties such as Colombard, Gros Manseng, Petit Manseng, Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, Muscat, Ugni Blanc, and Len de l’El. Reds and rosés are much smaller in proportion, using grapes like Tannat, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, etc. Whites are often fresh, fruity, aromatic, with good acidity, often to be drunk young; there are also sweeter styles (from later harvest) when conditions allow. The wines tend to be clean, bright, easy‑drinking, often with floral, citrus, tropical fruit elements depending on variety and vintage.

The climate there is a blend: predominantly oceanic influence (from the Atlantic), modified by inland warmth and, in some parts, by Mediterranean effects. Winters are mild; springs can be wet; summers warm and sometimes with thunderstorms. The soils are varied: sand, clay, alluvium, mixed with lighter soils in certain zones. Because of the modest altitudes and exposure, nights can bring cooling that helps wines preserve acidity and freshness. Harvests usually happen in late summer or early autumn, depending on grape variety and ripeness. Spring and early autumn are particularly good times to visit, offering pleasant weather and vineyard activity without the full heat of summer or the chill of winter.

Base yourself in Gers—towns like Auch or Condom are good centres—so you are well placed to explore vineyards, cultural heritage, and rural Gascony. Arrange tastings ahead with producers (especially smaller ones) to walk through vineyards and cellars. Drive or bike the wine‑routes through villages, sunflower fields, and vineyards, taking time for markets and local scenery. Time your visit for grape harvest or wine festivals to witness production in action. Pair wine days with local culinary experiences: farm tables, local inns, markets. Also allow time for non‑wine attractions: riding through countryside, exploring bastide towns, enjoying nature, rivers, local crafts—all of which enrich the wine experience.

Here are the top wineries to visit in Côtes de Gascogne:

• Château Arton
• Château de Lacquy

Here are the best wine tastings to book in Côtes de Gascogne:

• Armagnac Between Heritage and Innovation: Tour and Tasting at Château de Lacquy
• Classic Visit at Château Arton in Armagnac
• Exclusive Private Visit and Tasting at Château Arton in Armagnac