Nouvelle-Aquitaine holds the title of the largest agricultural region in France and is a cornerstone of European food production. Viticulture is its most famous export; the vineyards of Bordeaux (producing legendary reds and whites) and the Charente region (producing Cognac) are pillars of the global spirits and wine markets.
Beyond grapes, the region is a massive producer of cereals, particularly corn (maize), wheat, and sunflowers. Livestock farming is central to the local economy and culture, featuring the famous Limousin and Blonde d'Aquitaine beef cattle, as well as Basque sheep whose milk is used to produce the revered Ossau-Iraty cheese. The Périgord area (Dordogne) is internationally famous for its ducks, geese (foie gras), and black truffles.
Aquaculture is another vital sector, with the Marennes-Oléron basin and Arcachon Bay producing some of Europe's most prized oysters. In recent years, Nouvelle-Aquitaine has aggressively supported a shift toward organic farming and sustainable agricultural practices.
