Buzet AC

[boo-ZAY] appellation in southwest france that is right next to armagnac not far from bordeaux. Formerly called Côtes de Buzet, it achieved AC status in 1973. Its main grapes are those of Bordeaux-cabernet sauvignon cabernet franc merlot and malbec for red and rosé wines; sémillon sauvignon blanc and muscadelle for whites. The red wines, which dominate the area's production, are similar to good Bordeaux wines but are more moderately priced. The series of good vintages in the 1980s have helped this little-known appellation gain attention. Most of the wines come from a large cooperative, Les Vignerons de Buzet, at Buzet-sur-Baise. It produces good wines under the Cuvee Napoleon label.