The family-owned château Tour des Gendres is located in Ribagnac, in the South-West (Bergerac appellation). The domain’s history goes back to 1925, when the Vincenzo de Conti family (from Italy) settled in the Périgord to set up a family farm. In the early 1980s, third generation Conti family members moved to Ribagnac to establish a small farm and wine-growing holding. The domain’s name comes from the château’s owner during the early 20th century, Monsieur de Peyronny, who was none other than the Marquis de Foucault de Lardimalie’s nephew. The 55-hectare organic vineyard (certification was obtained in 2005) is managed by Luc de Conti. This domaine is undoubtedly one of the best signatures in this wine-making region, something that’s not lost on wine critics and those in the know! To meet the growing demand for their wines, in 2000, the Conti family began to buy in grapes from five neighbouring domains. Luc takes care of the vines and the wine-making, with the help of his cousin Francis. The domain has three vineyards: les Gendres, le Grand Caillou and Saint-Julien d’Eymet. Having decided to replant the Bergerac appellation’s forgotten grape varieties (small-berried Muscadelle and Malbec, for instance), they’re bringing a new breath of life to this great wine farm.

The property’s flagship wine, Moulin des Dames is produced from a 3.5 hectare parcel of the Gendres vineyard, characterised by its high proportion of limestone. Only produced in the best vintages, this cuvée is made using the same vinification and maturing process of the domaine’s other cuvées, yet its style lends a pronounced refinement, complexity and purity. It is rich and concentrated, melding splendid aromas of black fruits and chocolate with a touch of violet and orange peel, and silky tannins. A very attractive wine that reconciles volume and balance with freshness from the acidity. Only very small quantities are produced.