France
Although French wines seem to have fallen out of favour over recent years, it is rare that, in a 12 month period in the UK, we import more wines from any other one country.
With so many wine producing regions, so many different styles to choose from and so much history and knowledge, it is hardly any wonder that, within the wine world, many French wines are still regarded as the benchmark wines to which others must be compared.
Having said that, the French winemakers have certainly had cause to stop and re-think in the last decade or two. As New World wines have become more and more popular in the UK, the French have even taken radical steps to allow varietal labelling in certain areas and there has been a shift in producing wines with higher alcohol levels and more fruit in order to make the wines more accessible. The downside to this trend, should it continue, is that all winemakers all over the world will be offering us the same drink in 20 year's time.
Let's hope that there are enough traditional winemakers and drinkers out there to keep the old school wines alive as there will never be a new Bordeaux or Burgundy and least of all a new Alsace...vive le Terroir!
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Chablis, Domaine Jean Goulley
£14.99The fresh, unoaked nose of green apple and lemon also has occasional notes of mint. On the palate it is juicy with a flinty edge - unmistakeable in its roots. As M. Goulley says himself: "The name 'Chablis' is widely usurped on all five continents by wines which have absolutely no right to it. Be forewarned: there is only one true Chablis".Learn More -
Chevanceau Blanc, Vin de France
£6.99The citrus and fruit that leaps out of this delicious wine is due to the high proportion of Colombard used in the blend. Great for simple fish or just on its own.Learn More -
Le Campuget Grenache/Viognier Vin de Pays du Gard
£6.99A light style of dry white with good exotic fruit from the Grenache and a little light spice from the Viognier.Learn More -
Le Beau Chêne Grenache/Sauvignon Vin de France
£7.49A great blend which highlights both the crisp, aromatic side of Sauvignon as well as the delicious flavour of Grenache. Juicy and fruity!Learn More -
Le Beau Chêne Viognier Vin de France
£7.99This is a lovely Viognier with a aromas and flavours of apricot and ripe pears in a creamy style due to the malolactic fermentation (this is a good thing - honest!). The finish is long, well balanced and highly enjoyable.Learn More -
Viognier de Campuget IGP du Pont du Gard
£10.99A hugely enjoyable example of Viognier. Grown a bit further South of the Rhône, the viognier really flourishes in the extra sunshine and develops lovely peach and apricot fruit. The finish is refreshing and offers just a little spice.Learn More -
Beau Rivage Sauvignon Blanc, AC Bordeaux
£8.99This is a surprisingly zesty little Sauvignon which borders on the New World style. Nettles and grass dominate the nose whilst the palate is light and citrus dominated.Learn More -
Château Nicot Blanc, AC Entre-deux-Mers
£9.99A blend of 40% Sauvignon, 40% Semillon with 20% Muscadelle. The Sauvignon and Semillon play their parts admirably giving fresh fruit and elegance while the real star is the Muscadelle which gives a floral lift. A very impressive wine.Learn More -
Château Baret Blanc, AC Pessac Leognan
£19.99Both Sauvignon and Semillon are vinified at low temperature to preserve their aromatic qualities. After blending, the wine is aged in new French oak which adds its own character to this complex wine. The palate is lively and fresh with the aromatic and citric side of the nose carrying through whilst being complemented by a rich, honeyed tone.Learn More -
Muscat de Beaumes de Venise, Domaine de Coyeux (Half Bottle)
£9.99A delicious and fresh sweet wine that is rich and grapey with full, tropical flavours. With fermentation arrested by the addition of grape spirit, the wine carries a 15% abv but this is amazingly well balanced by the natural fruit and acidity.Learn More









