Customers are always asking us the best way to learn about wine and our response is always the same – TASTE IT! We know French wines can be intimidating for most, but we’re here to help. Trust us, we know that French wines aren’t the easiest to understand – they’re often labelled by the name of the region as opposed to the grape(s) and they can have unfamiliar flavors, but that’s just the way it is and it’s not going to change. Don’t worry, we’re here to help!
This Friday, I (Josh) will be at the bar pouring 5 different French wines and they all have a story that needs to be told. I’m going to tell it and you’re going to leave with a better understanding of French wine. And the more you learn about and understand wines from anywhere in the world, the more you can appreciate it for what it is. Come with an open mind and a willingness to learn, and we’ll guarantee you that you’ll get more out of your tasting experience at Table Wine. $5/person…..Free for Grape Nuts
The Wines
Prices range from $13 to $19
1. 2010 Eric Chevalier Chardonnay
Chardonnay from the Loire Valley? From a producer know for his Muscadets? Yep, this is super clean, zesty, mineral-infused Chardonnay at a great price.
2. 2011 Ch. de la Vieille Tour Bordeaux Blanc
White Bordeaux can only be made with 3 “approved” grapes – Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle. This one blends all 3 grapes to create a highly aromatic, exotic white wine that you’re going to love.
3. 2010 Ch. de Paraza Minervois Cuvée Speciale
Minervois is located in the deep southern, Mediterranean-influenced zone of France. Warm temps and plenty of sunshine contribute to the appeal of this Grenache-heavy blend. Ripe cherry, raspberry and strawberry fruit permeate this delicious “session” wine………that means you can drink a lot in one setting.
4. 2008 Ch. d’Angles La Clape Classique
What do you get when you take the longtime winemaker from Lafite-Rothschild and put him in charge of an estate right along the Mediterranean coast? This wine! It’s a blend of Syrah, Grenache and Mourvedre and it’s deep, rich, spicy and complex.
5. 2010 Ch. Barrail Chevrol Fronsac
Fronsac is one of growing zones of Bordeaux’ famed Right Bank, meaning the vineyards are east of the Gironde River. The clay-dominant soils of the Right Bank are best suited to Merlot and this one is almost entirely that grape along with small doses of Cab Franc and Cab Sauv. It is a product of the wonderful 2010 vintage and it is a wonderful wine at a wonderful price!