Paris has changed me. Before the city of light years, I used to be a vodka-cooler allured, a mango-flavored cider striven gal – and then I got to France and realized that champagne was actually within my reach, that rosé was not just a mix of leftover reds and whites and that the only cider around was very bitter, nothing to do with the candy-tasting magic potions I used to gulp down with the gals before a fun night out. So in my thirties, I’ve found a new passion. Tasting and letting my senses float me afar.
France has so many excellent wine regions that for the sake of clarity, I needed to choose my camp. When enjoying a rosé, I’ll opt for a Riviera wine, if possible from the charming little village of Bandol right on the Mediterranean seaside. I’ve visited this place and thus share a link. This seems like an important point to me. After all, liking something has a lot to do with subjectivity and the connections that we personally have. The Riviera rosés are light yet quite acid. Perfect with a chicken salad or as an appetizer with some green olives. Always cooled, please.
When in reds, I’ll definitely go for a Bordeaux, if possible the rather costly Saint Emilion village goody. This wine is produced with only two types of grapes – Merlot and Cabernet Franc- contrary to the Burgundy wines which are based on mixing several sorts. I like the tannin aspect of the Saint Emilion. It’s strong and acid, a wine that you’ll remember in your mouth for a while.
As far as champagne is concerned, I’m not picky. After all, any intelligent of a gal, knows where the good stuff lies. If given a choice though, I’ll decide upon a Taittinger or a Mumm. I’ve visited the Taittinger premises in Reims, the capital of the Champagne region, and was delighted to learn about the two-phased production of this wondrous party beverage. Once again, I’ll pick the acid brut ones. They marvelously pinch you a dash on your tongue, making the bubbly effect even more alive.
![So[phis]tix](http://www.makinen.fr/susa/wordpress/wp-content/susu_img/sophistix.gif)
February 18, 2009 at 8:06 PM -
Hi Susu,
Since I’ve lived in France, I’ve come to known these finer things, as well… I don’t drink, but I like to take a sip or two… and if it’s really good… I’ll have a 1/2 of a glass… For champagne, I can take about two sips, but not usually more… I do really enjoy the great wines, here… It’s just that I can’t drink very much at all!
Take care,
Leesa : )
February 18, 2009 at 10:03 PM -
oh how delicous and luxurious! i love the details of your descriptions, and i’ll have to take notes. as i love a nice glass of wine or a lovely champagne, i’m always at a loss at how to choose…
February 20, 2009 at 4:46 PM -
Leesa – France does change us, huh! I can’t drink much either, just a glass, or two if it’s really a special occasion.
Audrey – Choosing is not easy, but you can usually trust your instinct – often time several wines are good options. We just end up having favorites. If I didn’t have a cold, I’d enjoy a glass of hearty red this evening. But not today, later.
February 21, 2009 at 1:56 AM -
If you want to try some delightful whites from France, the white wines from Alsace are wonderful! They have some German grapes that is grown in the area, really worth a try! =)
February 21, 2009 at 9:33 PM -
Peikkokin tykää kuplista
February 23, 2009 at 6:27 AM -
You must get to know a bit about wine, living in Paris? I bet people know a lot there.
I think New Yorkers drink all sorts of stuff – hard alcohol, beer, wine, and all those things in-between. It’s cool just to see what people prefer.
Me, I love gin and tonics, and dry beer. I could never do the champagne. Many people get the headaches!
February 25, 2009 at 8:12 AM -
Nubia – You know, I used to love white wines and then once I accidentally overdid it, and ever since the whites and I don’t really get along. But thank you so much for the tip! I can always offer it as a gift. And maybe one day, I’ll mend it with the pale beverage again.
Isopeikko – Hei, kivaa, etta peikkokin ehtii tanne pain!
Kitty – People here seem to have a higher general knowledge about wines than elsewhere. Not everyone is an expert, nor even likes wines so much, but it is as if it was in their education here to master at least the basics. Gin and tonics is a very good choice. You also seem to prefer bitter tastes in alcohol.