Brenda McCormick | Copywriter
Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne, Sancerre: France has been linked with wine for centuries. Generations have developed memorable wines from classic grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Syrah.
However, tradition is not at the expense of innovation and today French winemakers are creating all sorts of exciting new wines too.
With so much choice it can be tricky to know where to start so we have selected some great French wines that are worth investigating. Perhaps your new favourite is among them!
This wine pairs well with smoked salmon.
Bougrier Les Secrets de Sophie
Loire Valley, France, 2021/22
Was €18.95 Now €12.95
The Bougrier family have been farming the Loire Valley for six generations and this Touraine Sauvignon is a great introduction into what they do. You can expect good acidity and a chalky minerality which complement the fresh ripe lime and grapefruit flavours.
The Cave de Lugny co-op have produced this top unoaked Chardonnay.
Cave de Lugny Mâcon-Lugny Grande Réserve
Burgundy, France, 2021
Was €19.95 Now €15.95
This is an excellent go-to Chardonnay from the Cave de Lugny cooperative in the Mâconnais region of Burgundy. Fruity and elegant, it’s 100% unoaked Chardonnay with plenty of fruit and floral aromas - think peach and pear fruit with a crisp lemon finish.
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Try this Sancerre with seafood dishes.
Domaine de la Chézatte Sancerre
Loire Valley, France, 2021
Was €26.95 Now €22.95
Domaine de la Chezatte’s sustainably farmed vineyards in Sancerre are south-facing with soils of flint and limestone, making them ideal for growing Sauvignon Blanc. This Sancerre is crisp and refreshing with citrusy lemon notes – it’s a great one to pair with seafood or Asian dishes.
The Château Flaunys vineyards south west of Montagne St Emilion.
Château Flaunys Montagne-Saint-Émilion
Bordeaux, France, 2019
Was €22.95 Now €18.95
Farmed sustainably, the Château Flaunys vineyards are located in the south-west of Montagne St Emilion, and are made mainly from individual Merlot plots. This elegant Bordeaux is a deep garnet hue and features fragrant notes sweet spices, black cherries and a velvety finish.
The vineyards of third generation winemaker, Antoine Olivier.
Domaine Olivier Santenay Le Bievaux
Burgundy, France, 2018/19
Was €38.95 Now €33.95
This is a beautifully balanced Burgundian Chardonnay from third generation winemaker Antoine Olivier. It has aromas of apple, honey, and lemon peel, a broad palate with a light nutty undertone and a citrus fresh finish.
You’ll find lots more great French wines – and special offers – here.
Prices are valid at time published. Please check our website or stores for the most up-to-date pricing.