A Road Trip Through the Vineyards of Rural France: A Wine Lover's Dream
Top French Wines To Try from the French Countryside - The Charm of Hidden Gem Wineries in Rural France
LOIRE VALLEY
The Loire Valley is one of France's most picturesque and historic regions. Known for its stunning chateaux, charming villages, and rolling hills covered in vineyards, it is a popular destination for travelers from around the world. From the gently rolling hills to the winding river, the Loire Valley is truly a feast for the senses. And the wines produced here are no exception. Whether you prefer crisp, refreshing whites or full-bodied reds, the Loire Valley has something to offer every wine lover. And with its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-class cuisine, it is a destination that is sure to delight even the most discerning traveler.
THE PYRÉNÉES
Nestled in the heart of the Pyrenees, a stunning vineyard awaits those seeking a true taste of the region's rich history and unique terroir. The Pyrenees mountains have long been revered for their breathtaking beauty, and the vineyard is no exception. With sweeping views of the rugged landscape and a commitment to sustainable farming practices, this is a destination that truly has it all.
The vineyard's commitment to quality is evident in every bottle they produce. Their meticulous attention to detail and use of traditional winemaking techniques has garnered them both local and international recognition. Visitors can sample their award-winning wines in the onsite tasting room, where knowledgeable staff are on hand to guide guests through the tasting experience. But the vineyard is more than just a place to drink wine. It's also a working farm, where visitors can learn about the grape-growing process and the importance of sustainable agriculture. The vineyard's commitment to the environment is evident in everything they do, from their use of natural pest control methods to their dedication to reducing their carbon footprint.
MUST-SIP WINE FROM THIS REGION: 2019 Hours Jurancon Dry Cuvee Marie
The grapes that make up this dry white wine are mostly Gros Manseng with some Courbu. The vineyards are netled into the Pyrénées mountains. Tasting as an aperitif when it is 2/5 years old. As an accompaniment to: cold meats, fish, shellfish, white meats, Asian or spicy dishes, cheeses, panacakes, galettes des rois, pudding.
SHOP THIS WINE - 2019 Hours Jurancon Dry Cuvee Marie
THE ALPS
Despite its challenging location, the Alps vineyard has been producing high-quality wines for centuries. The unique terroir of the region, with its rocky soil and high altitude, gives the wines a distinctive flavor that cannot be found anywhere else. Each sip was a journey through the mountains, with notes of wildflowers, herbs, and minerals mingling with the rich fruit flavors. But the Alps vineyard is more than just a producer of fine wines. It is also a vital part of the local community, providing jobs and supporting the economy of the region. The people who work here are passionate about what they do, and it shows in every bottle they produce.
MUST-SIP WINE FROM THIS REGION: 2022 Domaine Quenard 'Vieilles Vignes 1930' Chignin Savoie.
An old-vine offering of the native Savoie white grape Jacquere. A crisp white wine with an intense minerality. Delightfully fruity nose with aromas of peach, citrus, and nectarine with a dusting of minerals. The same succulent fruits flow through the palate, backed by bright acidity.
SHOP THIS WINE - 2022 Domaine Quenard 'Vieilles Vignes 1930' Chignin Savoie
LANGUEDOC LA CLAPE
Nestled in the rugged hills overlooking the Mediterranean, this vineyard has been producing exceptional wines for centuries. The unique terroir of the La Clape region, with its limestone soils and coastal breezes, gives the wines a distinctive character that is prized by connoisseurs around the world. As I sampled some of the vineyard's offerings, I was delighted by the complex flavors and aromas, which ranged from bright citrus to earthy spice.
MUST-SIP WINE FROM THIS REGION: 2021 Domaine de Boede Le Pavillon
In the heart of the Massif of La Clape. deally exposed, the terroirs of La Négly and Boède are distinguished by the diversity of their soils. Indeed, Boède is silty sand and sandstone. The Paux-Rosset family definitively steers the estate in a very qualitative strategy and aspires to make wines from the castle references of the Languedoc. The cultivation method is modified preserving the environment and the vines are again cultivated for the most part.
An intense ruby robe and a complex nose with notes of fresh red fruit, raspberry, blackcurrant and just a touch of spices, black pepper and cinnamon. The palate is round and leaves you wanting more, the melted tannins are silky and the finish is long and elegant with notes of liquorice. Serve with summer barbecues. To be drink between 2 and 4 years.