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© 2017
Join us at a place that will capture your heart. Right where the deep black of the Périgord Noir gently transitions into the wine country of the Bergeracois, the lands of Domaine de Barbe sit atop the sun-drenched hills above the Dordogne. Here, we meet Isabelle and Pierre-Yves Kuster on their goose and duck farm—arguably one of the most beautiful and traditional operations in the region, where time still seems to beat to the rhythm of nature.
Pierre-Yves Kuster explains with a deep, palpable passion for his animals how they are raised here for several months with the greatest care under the open sky. It is a long journey until they finally become—and Pierre-Yves admits without hesitation that this never happens without a certain regret—those wonderful specialties such as foie gras, rillettes, and confits.
Particularly on the subject of foie gras, we realized that our own knowledge had previously been based only on common, widespread prejudices that often paint a picture of mistreated creatures. Here on-site, in direct conversation and looking out over the vast pastures, this image is contextualized by the farm's lived ethics.
The Kuster family offers not only foie gras but a whole range of traditional, homemade Périgord dishes. What makes them special: all preparations are made entirely without chemical preservatives, colorants, or artificial flavor enhancers. Only geese and ducks from their own controlled breeding are processed.
Production takes place in modern facilities that comply with the strictest EU standards and are regularly inspected by the state. Yet, beyond legal requirements, the Kusters have committed themselves to their own philosophy. Through artisanal rigor and a deeply rooted deontology, they guarantee products that respect honest, traditional practices and offer the customer a healthy, unadulterated taste experience.
The family's settlement in the Périgord in 1982 marks the beginning of this culinary adventure, once initiated by Pierre-Yves' father, Michel. Today, we see the impressive result of decades of work, endless patience, and a dedication that can be felt in every conversation with Pierre-Yves. It was a real pleasure for us to dive deeper into the secrets of his profession.