SOUTH OF FRANCE HOUSE WINES AT REGULAR LCBOs
The past decade belonged to Australia wines and the current one looks like being won by south America. But let me draw your attention to one of the exciting fringe shows currently happening in wine. It’s called Stage France. That country over in Europe that sort of got the world drinking wine is staging a revival. Not with its prestigious, mega dollar bottles, but at the regional, grass roots level. The cheap, everyday wines that felt “˜so good’ on your travels are getting a make-over, and are now good enough to delight, when we’re not in France.
Chile and Argentina may have everyone beat for ‘yumminess’ and value, but when the mood for a detour comes, I highly recommend French bistro-styles wines such as the white and red pair below.
. . . bistro/rustic red
I posted this wine back in November, and after a few more bottles I’m thinking it deserves a second plug. The label is misleading because it’s not a wow, Merlot ~ wine, but is a classic bistro-style red wine. Between light and medium bodied it’s a great combination of vitality, earthiness and “˜somewhereness’. The latter quality being what makes wine interesting as well as enjoyable. And which brings the feeling of a place to the table. It’s good to see the excellent producer, Gabriel-Meffre, back in our market.
GABRIEL-MEFFRE 11 Merlot “˜La Chasse’, Vin du France 333971 $12.95
. . . refresher/aperitif white
Pellehaut is bone dry and super refreshing. A blend of Ugni Blanc, Colombard, Sauvignon, Chardonnay. Expect tart refreshment from the first two grapes with a little floral and prettiness from the others. More refresher than party drink. Hard not to “˜feel’ the ocean or bracing Spring freshness with this drink. At only 11% alc it will be perfect for warm weather sloshing ““ twenty weeks from now!
DOMAINE de PELLEHAUT 12 Blanc, Cotes de Gascogne, France 319665 $12.15~ (11%)