Monbazillac, Perigord Noir, France

Monbazillac is an AOC appellation for sweet wines made in an area in the wider region of Bergerac, in southwestern France. Not as famous nor as expensive as their neighbors from Sauternes, Monbazillac wines are still some of the more widely known French sweet white wines. They are produced from Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle grapes. The vineyard area lies on the southern bank of the Dordogne river as it flows toward Bordeaux, surrounding the town of Monbazillac itselef.

Monbazillac's vineyards can be traced back to Benedictine monasteries in the 11th Century. The preoccupied monks are said to have neglected the vines for a time, finding them affected by noble rot. Not wanting to waste the harvest, they went ahead and made the wine, discovering that the rot had only improved the flavor. Viticulture has remained in the area ever since.

The best known property in the appellation is, not suprisingly, Château de Monbazillac. The house dates back to around 1550 and combines medieval and Renaissance influences. It is the home of the appellation's cooperative winery. You can taste wine there, as well as buy wine from the region. The wine is delicious and remarkably affordable.