French Wine
I am enjoying the gastronomy of France very much. Tasting the best food and wine from each region I visit has not only been a pleasure it has tested my palate and refined my abilities to discern floral fruity citrus and mineral notes. Of course I am no sommelier but I can now better describe delicious wines consumed over the last week.
Without getting into the science of wine making the French believe that the soil here in France is the reason for their world renowned wines. France is divided up into Terres (regions) in which the vineyards will only grow certain grape varieties.
Burgundy is a historical region in east-central France. It’s famous for its Burgundy wines as well as pinot noirs and Chardonnay, Chablis and Beaujolais.
Down south in the region of Provence Grenache grapes are cultivated with other varieties to make the Provençal rosé an incredibly delicate pink wine that can sometimes verge on clear.
The Grand Dame
The most well known French wine is Champagne made from grapes of the same name grow in the northern region of France The capital of the Champagne region is Reims which is where all the great champagne houses like Moet Chandon and Verve Clicquot are found.
Verve Clicquot has a very interesting history. Founded by Madame Clicquot who became a widow at 27 and inherited her husbands wine business. Although Champagne had already been invented in the 17th century through smart business acumen and innovations to the wine making process she single handedly created the brand Veuve Clicquot which has been around now for 250 years. For this reason she known as the “Grande Dame of French Champagne.
French Inspiration
French champagne epitomizes glamour, style, and luxury. All over the world champagne is used to celebrate. From weddings and funerals, New Years Eve to 21st birthdays and graduations, champagne is the sparkling wine of choice.
In France champagne is drunk at anytime of day because the French believe that this sparkling wine possesses health benefits. It reduces the risks of heart problems and stroke. Now I don’t know if there is any scientific evidence to back this up however I do know from personal experience that two glasses will get you drunk so it’s best sipped slowly.
As a lover of champagne I certainly enjoy the taste of the creamy bubbles. Don’t be afraid to use champagne as a mixer because it will open up another world of delicious sparkling drinks. My favourite champagne cocktails are the Kir Royale and French 75. Why not add some French inspiration to your champagne glass with a splash of lavender syrup for a delicious sparkling cocktail called Lavender French 75.
As the French would say Santé!