By Joseph Steele.
Bonjour connoisseurs and aficionados of the finer things in life. As we celebrate all that is French this week, we embark on a vinous journey through the remarkable winemaking regions of France. This guide is your golden ticket to understanding, appreciating and indulging in the essence of French viticulture. Grab your Riedel glass and prepare for a sophisticated, yet slightly cheeky romp through the luscious French wine regions.
AlsaceThe Aromatic Gem
Nestled in the foothills of the Rhine valley, bordering Switzerland and Germany, Alsace is steeped in Germanic viticulture traditions. With an offering that is a delightful divergence from the usual suspects of aromatic whites, Alsace produces primarily dry and fruity varietals. The region itself is a mosaic of half-timbered houses, verdant vineyards and a unique Franco-Germanic cultural blend, with a wine route that is one of the oldest and most picturesque trails.
Bordeaux
The Benchmark of Blends
Our next stop takes us to the prestigious vineyards of Bordeaux. Boasting estates and regions such as Château Margaux, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru, Loupiac, Saint-Estèphe and Cadillac, Bordeaux is synonymous with opulence. Gorged with grapes stretching across the region to the Atlantic coast, the maritime climate and diverse terroirs produce some of the world’s most renowned red blends. The wineries of Bordeaux are known as ‘châteaux’ and include some of the most prestigious vineyards in the world.
Tannic and aromatic reds dominate the region with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc best representing the region’s robust flavours. The Médoc region’s structured and tannic blends contrast beautifully with the luscious, velvety wines of the Pomerol and Saint-Emilion. The whites of the region vary from very dry to very sweet with the likes of Sauternes and its botrytised Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc that create a deliciously sweet nectar.
BurgundyThe Epitome of Luxury
Moving on to Burgundy, we arrive in a region where elegance and tradition seamlessly blend. With a reputation that evokes reverence and respect amongst wine lovers, Burgundy is the holy grail for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay enthusiasts. Home to exceptional Grand Crus and Vintages, it is considered by some oenologists to be among the best in the world. Known as the ‘climats of Burgundy’ tastes and aromas vary greatly from vineyard to vineyard. Each sip is a nuanced narrative of the land.
Burgundy reds made from Pinot Noir and Gamay grapes offer up supple red fruits and spice aromas, while the mineral-laden whites bring finesse and freshness to the palate. Premier and Grand Crus vineyards are the jewels in Burgundy’s crown proving that wines of this region are a study in sophistication.
ChampagneThe Sparkling Star of Celebration
We find ourselves in the effervescent heart of France’s wine regions. The air is perpetually festive and the bubbles synonymous with luxury.
Champagne is arguably the birthplace of the world’s most celebrated sparkling wines. Located in the cool climate of Northeast France this extraordinary region benefits from oceanic and continental influences with a chalky, clay and limestone soil. It is in Champagne that we see some of the oldest manufacturing techniques producing wines of unparalleled finesse and vivacity.
The grand trio of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay reign supreme here creating blends varying from the crisp and citrusy Brut to the rich and creamy Vintage varieties. The finest sparkling wines are produced from these grapes, are named exclusively after the region and produced entirely in Champagne. Big names and big flavours come from this region, but the artisanal growers are not to be overlooked.
CorsicaThe Mediterranean Marvel
The island of Corsica is bathed in the vibrant Mediterranean sun and features a rugged terrain. Known as the ‘Island of Beauty’, Corsica’s unique viticultural landscape reflects the island’s wild and diverse nature with Corsican vineyards scattered across the granite and schist soil island. Growing in such a unique ecosystem, while benefitting from all that is brilliant of the Mediterranean climate, Corsica produces deliciously subtle wines.
It is one of the few regions in the world where you will find wines as diverse as Pinot Noir, Tempranillo and Barbarossa growing together. Known for delicate Muscats and Vermentino grapes, as well as perfectly balanced reds where Nielluccio, Sciaccarello, Syrah and Grenache create an experience where tannins, aromas and spices all have their time to shine.
Loire ValleyThe Garden of France
We now wind our way through the Loire Valley, where you will find not only some of the most majestic vistas but an incredibly diverse wine offering. While white wines dominate the area, Loire Valley wines exhibit everything from a fresh fruitiness with a crisp mouth-feel, right through to a dry and mineral-rich palate.
The Loire is the original breeding ground for natural wine production methods, founded in the subregion of Touraine. When working with such a diverse terroir and radical thinkers, it is important to appreciate the products for what they are, unique and sumptuous in every sense.
Sauvignon Blanc may be the most popular varietal native to the Loire. Shining bright in the Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé regions, it yields a bight acidity and flinty minerality. On the other hand, you have the versatile hero of the region, Chenin Blanc, producing everything from a bone-dry Vouvray to the lusciously sweet Quarts de Chaume.
When it comes to dominant reds, Cabernet Franc is known for yielding medium-bodied wines recognised by their complex red-fruit notes, spices and tart finish. When it is time for a Summer picnic, only wines from the Loire will do.
ProvenceThe Rosé Haven
Our penultimate stop is the verdant region of Provence. It’s hard to deny the beauty of this sun-kissed region that almost exclusively produces a wine synonymous with Summer: Rosé. When you’ve been producing wine for some 2600 years, you tend to stick with what you know. The idyllic Mediterranean climate of Provence makes it the ultimate destination for those who adore light, refreshing wines. Given Provence’s penchant for Rosé, more than 20 grape varieties are cultivated here, with dry and fruity characteristics.
The pale, pink to orange-hued wines are a staple at chic gatherings. From beachside picnics to impossibly stylish soirées, Provincial wines are a simply elegant addition to your festivities. Chilled Rosés are a crowd favourite, while the Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrahs are not to be overlooked.
Rhône ValleyThe Spice Route
We reach our final destination, the warm and spicy, Rhône Valley. Divided into two distinct Northern and Southern subregions, the wines produced here are full of character. The Northern vines are grown on steep, Southeast-facing terraces, while the Southern vines are cultivated in that incredible Mediterranean climate. The region is best known for its breadth of production, with a few key heroes.
In the North, Syrah is King, producing robust, peppery appellations such as Hermitage and Côte-Rôtie. These fine reds offer up aromatic bouquets; dark, red fruits that strike the palate with spice and notes of liquorice. The South is dominated by Grenache blends with the likes of the hearty and full-bodied Châteauneuf-du-pape. Easily identified by its earthy, gamey flavours with subtle hints of leather, this hero of the South is prime for aging. Wines from the Rhône are beautiful pairings to rich, flavourful dishes.
Now it’s time to sip, savour and celebrate the distinct wines of France’s diverse regions. From North to South, French wines offer a unique breadth of flavours, aromas and experiences. From the regal splendours of Bordeaux to the rustic charms of the Rhône, each region is a true testament to the country’s rich cultural and vinous history.
Pour yourself a glass and let the liquid poetry of France’s finest transport you to the vineyards where passion, tradition and history converge.
