French Whites

Description

There is a 20-minute Introduction to Wine Tasting at the start of this tasting.

The Loire

In the wettest part of France, the North West, they call it 'The Garden of France' as it is the most green and lush. Here lies the Loire Valley, a grapegrowing area famous as the home of Sauvignon Blanc, a trendy grape variety currently receiving ample air-time in the world of wine. We'll look at Sancerre and Pouilly Fumé and talk about why so many people love this classic French grape.

Burgundy

Central France houses Burgundy, a wine region locked in any wine aficionados heart. It is steeped in tradition and home to classic grape varieties such as Chardonnay, Gamay and the expressive and elegant Pinot Noir. Within the undulating hills of Côte d’Or, we find the famous expressions of the classic grape variety, Chardonnay, and wines to die for. Also we shall explore the up-and-coming Côte Chalonnaise and the delicate wines from the Maconnais. A delightful region to taste your way through. 

Alsace

A richly endowed wine region that deserves greater recognition. Alsace is a unique blend of the best of Germanic and French culture and grape varieties, and offers some of France's most idiosyncratic wine styles. It is the most distinct of wine regions ... and my favourite, with grapes such as Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Sylvaner and Gewurztraminer!

But let's not forget the stunning, but less known, white wines from BORDEAUX, THE RHONE VALLEY AND SOUTHERN FRANCE. There are so many types and grapes to enjoy, and not enough time! ;-)

Location: St James Tavern - Winchester