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Wines from French vineyards boast taste, diversity Date published: 8/17/2005
VIVE La France. Probably the most famous regions are Bordeaux, Burgundy and Champagne. These regions undoubtedly produce some amazing wines. But some of the lesser-known regions also produce some fantastic wines. So let me tell you about my favorites. I have a penchant for wines from the Alsace. An area that was fought over for years and went back and forth between German and French rule, they certainly know how to make the best Gewurztraminer in the world. I've had some decent domestic Gewurz, but nobody can top the Alsace for their pungent, spicy, floral qualities. Possibly the only wine that can stand up against the spices of a Thai or Indian curry. I am a big proponent of Alsatian wine. Grapes grown in this region include the aforementioned Gewurztraminer, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris (Pinot Grigio in Italy) and Riesling. These are some of the overlooked treasures of a country so rich in viticultural history. Interestingly, Alsatian wines are identified by their German-style tapered bottles. Another very important but neglected region is the Loire. Known principally for Sancerre and Pouilly Fume, this area makes some fantastic quality wines for a fraction of the cost of their more famous counterparts. I love Vouvray. I could shout it from the rooftops. (If you see some crazy woman on a rooftop in Spotsylvania County, guess who it is?) Made from Chenin Blanc, the yield can vary enormously. But on a hot summer night, Vouvray on the patio is a must. One region I haven't mentioned is the Rhone. Being such an important region, I'd be a slacker if I let it go without mention. The slopes of the southern Rhone boast the most famous appellation, Chateauneuf-du-Pape. These wines are big, beefy and quite possibly the highest in alcohol content. The white Rhones are Marsanne, Rousanne and the wonderful Chardonnay alternative, Viognier.
1. Be respectful. No personal attacks.
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