26 Jun 2025
Posted at 19:45
in Wine Times
France is renowned for its rich and diverse wine heritage, and this week, we’re delving into four exceptional wines that epitomise the country’s vinous excellence.
From the elegant reds of Santenay in Burgundy to the robust flavours of La Croix Saint-Roch Calvet from Montagne Saint-Émilion, each bottle tells a unique story of terroir and tradition. also explore the sparkling delight of Crémant de Bordeaux, a testament to Bordeaux’s versatility, and the refined elegance of Château de Fesles 2022 from Anjou.
PRECIOUS DAY Crémant de Bordeaux Brut (£14.25 from The Oxford Wine Company)
Crémant is gaining popularity and is increasingly seen as a sophisticated alternative to Prosecco. While Prosecco remains a favourite for its light, fruity, and approachable profile, Crémant offers a different experience with its traditional method of production (but way cheaper than Champagne), which results in finer bubbles and more complex flavours. I love an Aperol Spritz and have recently swapped the often sweet and sugary Prosecco for a Crémant.
Crafted from a blend of Merlot and Sémillon grapes, this Crémant offers a delightful balance of flavours and aromas.
A vibrant bouquet of citrus and floral notes, with hints of ripe pear and grapefruit. The palate is equally enchanting, with a crisp and lively character complemented by subtle undertones of brioche, adding a touch of richness to its refreshing profile.
It’s crisp and lively with red berry notes – a perfect aperitif!
La Croix Saint Roch 2022 Calvet (£15.50 from OCADO)
With the sunshine beaming down, I’ve got the perfect BBQ red. La Croix Saint Roch 2022 Calvet is a remarkable wine from the Montagne-Saint-Émilion region in Bordeaux. This vintage is crafted from a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon and offers smooth tannins that provide a pleasant texture. The fruit flavours are complemented by a long, aromatic finish, making each sip a delight.
Santenay Moillard-Thomas 2022 (£29 or £25 Mix 6 from Majestic)
Made with one hundred percent of my favourite grape variety, Pinot Noir, and comes from Moillard-Thomas, one of the oldest negociants in Nuits-Saint-Georges.
A smooth and well-balanced experience, with soft tannins that enhance its drinkability. The bright fruit flavours are complemented by a savoury core, creating a very satisfying taste. It’s aged for 12 months in oak barrels, which gives it a gentle touch of vanilla that lingers on the finish, adding complexity without overshadowing the delicate fruit and mineral notes.
Château De Fesles ‘La Chapelle’ Cabernet Franc 2022 (£16.50 from The Oxford Wine Company)
I’m absolutely loving Cabernet Franc at the moment, often in a blend but this one is 100 per cent and from Anjou in the Loire Valley. Ideal for serving slightly chilled on a summer’s day, it’s a refreshing wine, with juicy red fruit flavours of fresh red berries, such as cranberries and strawberries. The tannins are silky and well-integrated,
providing a smooth texture that enhances the overall drinking experience.
PRECIOUS DAY Crémant de Bordeaux Brut (£14.25 from The Oxford Wine Company)
Santenay Moillard-Thomas 2022 (£29 or £25 Mix 6 from Majestic)
La Croix Saint Roch 2022 Calvet (£15.50 from OCADO)
Château De Fesles ‘La Chapelle’ Cabernet Franc 2022 (£16.50 from The Oxford Wine Company)