Alsace - Unlike the rest of France, Alsace names its wines by grape varietal instead of just place names of origin. White wines comprise the vast majority of Alsace wines. Gewurztraminer, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris and Riesling are the most noteworthy of the Alsace varietals. The Alsace Gewurztraminer has remarkable flavors, unlike any New World wines, low acidity, high alcohol content all wrapped in a zesty blend of aromatic spice. The Alsace Pinot Blanc is reasonably priced and is a light-bodied white wine. The Pinot Gris has a fuller-body and reveals a rich flavor profile. The traditional Alsace Riesling is a dry, white wine with characteristic mineral nuances.
The Loire Valley - Known for its white wines mainly Sancerre, Vouvray, Pouilly-Fume (prounounced "Poo-wee Fu-may") and Muscadet, the Loire Valley rests on the northwest side of France beginning just inland from the Atlantic and running the length of the Loire River. The wines from the Loire Valley come in a vast array of styles, from dry to sweet and from predominately white to sparkling - wines from the Loire are often, but not always, crafted in a lighter style due in part to the region's cooler climate. Styles to keep an eye out for include Pouilly-Fume (the most concentrated regional wine bringing a fuller bodied white made from Sauvignon Blanc grapes), Sancerre (typically medium-bodied and also made from Sauvignon Blanc), Muscadet (named for the region, gives a lighter styled white wine made from the Melon de Bourgogne grape), and Vouvray (from the Chenin Blanc grape).
Provence - The beautiful French wine-growing region of Provence is known predominantly for its rosé wines. A few producers to try include: Chateau Pradeaux and Chateau de Roquefort.
The varied growing-regions, a rich wine-making history and a passionate vineyard heritage all allow for French wines to continue to set an uncompromising, gold standard in the world of wine.
