Get to Know Your French Wines
You’ve just booked your first break to France. The thought of relaxing in the garden of your self-catered cottage, basking in the evening sun with a selection of wines, is what’s getting you through the cold winter months at home.
You may not be taking a particularly long trip away, but your mind is filled with what to do and how to make the most of it; the sights, the weather and who you’re sharing it with.
Like anyone else, you start discussing your trip to France with friends or relatives. Suddenly you realise that a big part of your trip is going to be the wine that you know little about. Its part of your idyllic vision, you’ll need to have some kind of knowledge other than what’s the cheapest in the supermarket aisle.
Many people have been in this situation, and it’s not that scary. Wine is a luxurious treat that should be enjoyed, not looked at in horror.
There are so many ways to look at wine and so many wines to try. Like anyone who wants to get to know that little bit more about it, there are many websites with information and wine tasting classes at local colleges and community centres.
It doesn’t have to be intimidating. Learning with your partner, or a friend, can make it more enjoyable and satisfying knowing the lingo that comes with every wine testing.
Before you know it, you’ll be a pro when choosing the right wine for the right occasion. Plus your trip to France won’t be overshadowed by the thought of being laughed at by the French wine experts.
There are many things to learn during your journey to becoming a wine expert.
The most popular white wine grape is Chardonnay. Originating from the Burgundy region of France, the Chardonnay grape is now spread over 300,000 acres of land. California alone holds 100,000 acres. In fact, Chardonnay has become one of the few grapes that is now more famous than the wines made from it.
Chardonnay has produced some delightful table wines. It will have ripened easily and produced wines with a rich apple, citrus and tropical fruit aromas and flavours. Chardonnay also provides the base for Champagne which makes it all the more desirable. Maybe before your trip away, take the time to buy Chardonnay wine.
Take a look at the label. The best Chardonnay’s come from the cooler climates of Burgundy or California. The only fallback of Chardonnay is that it is not an especially versatile food wine. It is best to be paired with a simple seafood dish or even poultry.
During you research of wine, you will come across many different grapes producing several wines to tantalise your taste buds. For newcomers, however, Chardonnay will get your pallet raring to go.
Visiting France with a friend or loved one will be a memorable experience. Learning the language of wine together will boost your confidence in choosing the perfect wine for that sun-drenched evening, relaxing in your country cottage. Sounds perfect.
Most certainly if you take a trip to Burgundy itself, you can choose your Chardonnay wine yourself. It could come fresh from the barrel if you wish, but be sure to show off your new skills during a wine taste, even if your French isn’t quite up to scratch, your skills won’t let you down!
So sit back and relax during your break to France. The wines that you’ll sample will be worth the wait.
Once back in the UK, keeping up the use of your new wine knowledge is a must. You’ll know the perfect wine to give as a gift, or to complement your dishes at your now, very popular dinner parties.
Joining an online wine club will broaden your access to many styles of wine. There are several wine clubs in the UK. Some may think of this as a lazy way to shop, but you should think of it as a new way to experience wine.
You can rest assured that the wine will reach you ready to serve, and will save you having to take more time in the supermarket choosing your wine. The comfort of your own home will always be more appealing.
Some will even have a few wine tasting notes to help refresh your memory. Take a look at the offers that these wine clubs can offer. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at the benefits available to you.
