Snapshot: Unexpected French Finds
It’s easy to think France is mostly Burgundy, Bordeaux, and Champagne. But we’re lucky enough to be shown wines from tiny off-the-beaten-path appellations, unique bottlings, and unexpected expressions of grapes we think we already know. That’s what this breakdown is all about. So enjoy this snapshot of new French wines that we’re absolutely loving right now.
Meyer-Fonné, Gentil d’Alsace
Region: Alsace AOC - Alsace, France
Grapes: Riesling, Muscat, Pinot Blanc, Sylvaner, Pinot Gris
It’s not very often we see blended wines out of Alsace. The region is know mostly for its single varietal bottlings. But this medley of aromatic white grapes is an absolute pleasure for your senses. On the nose you notice the Riesling and Muscat with their delicately floral notes and hints of pineapple. But once you take a sip your palate is filled with sumptuous minerality and silky smooth texture. And it’s incredibly refreshing. The flowers disappear after the first sniff and you’re left with incredible acidity. This wine is an absolute treat to sip on. Endive salad with lots of goat cheese, spicy Pad Thai, shrimp tacos. That’s what you need with the Gentil.
Pascal Janvier, Cuvée du Rosier Rouge Coteaux du Loir
Region: Coteaux du Loir AOC - Loire Valley, France
Grape: Pineau d’Aunis
It’s hard to talk about the Loire Valley as one region with one identity due to the vast area it encompasses. One red grape that often gets overlooked in favor of Cabernet Franc, is Pineau d’Aunis. It’s trickier and more temperamental in the vineyard, but true devotees appreciate its potential and know it’s worth the patience. Pascal Janvier has committed to this single varietal bottle because he understands how lovely Pineau d’Aunis can be. This particular bottle is full of fresh strawberries but when you take a sip you’re confronted with lively acidity and a little black pepper. The structure here is also quite lovely. Soft but certainly present tannins make your cheeks pucker in the best way. Pasta all’Amatriciana, skirt steak just off the grill, beef Bulgogi. That’s what you want with this delightfully charming red.
André & Michel Quenard, Chignin Gamay
Region: Chignin AOC - Savoy, France
Grape: Gamay
We love Gamay. That’s all… But seriously folks, the bright, punchy wines of Beaujolais are some of our favorites. It’s not the only place to find excellent Gamay though. Along the French Alps you will find our favorite grape thriving in Chignin. This wine is essentially Alpine, with it’s ever present freshness. Instead of Bing cherries, think black currant. Instead of high acid, imagine a dense core of savory minerality. And you get a little more pepper on the nose with this après-ski stunner. It’s a must-try.
Domaine Ostertag, Le Bal des Masques
Region: Alsace AOC - Alsace, France
Grape: Gewürztraminer
This coppery, white peppery skin-contact Gewürztraminer brings a level of sophistication that your everyday orange wines fall short of. With notes of fresh tomatoes on the vine, dried apricot, and honeysuckle. And it requires amazing food. Risotto with asparagus and fresh peas. Bratwurst with plenty of sauerkraut and Dijon mustard. Gooey Tallegio drizzled with honey. The gently grippy tannins make this wine perfect for rich food, but its vibrance and balanced acidity make you want glass after glass.
