December 2nd – 8th
December 2nd – 8th
Although slipping in share, France remains the most famous wine country, with Bordeaux being probably the World’s most prestigious wine region.
Bordeaux reds are primarily Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot based wines, often blended with minor grape varietals such as Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot or Malbec.
White Bordeaux wines are mainly Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon blends. Champagne is famous for its Chardonnay based sparkling wines, while Burgundy is known for its Chardonnay based still white wine and Pinot Noir based reds.
In the southern part of Burgundy, Gamay is king and makes the fruity Beaujolais. Wines of the Rhone Valley are divided into two categories; the Syrah based wines from the North and Syrah, Grenache, Mouvedre blends of the South.
In terms of whites, Marsanne, Roussane, Grenache Blanc and Viognier are often blended.
The Loire Valley is famous for dry whites and grows most varietals, including Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Melon de Bourgogne from which the famous Muscadet is made and the red Cabernet Franc.
There are three other key French wine regions; Alsace, Languedoc-Roussillon and Provence well-known in turn, for their dry whites, value reds and refreshing Rosé.
Wines from the French island of Corsica are also becoming increasingly popular made from unique varietals such as red Nielluccio, & Sciacarello and white Vermentino.
“Who loves not wine, women and song, remains a fool his whole life!”
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