French White Wine

As with the country’s reds, France’s white wines span an astonishing array of styles, from racy and zesty to rounded and rich to sweet and honeyed. Most are associated with a particular region and grape variety – none more so than Burgundy, whose producers transcend the massmarket reputation of the Chardonnay grape. Alsace delivers zesty, zappy Riesling; the Loire Valley does the same with its Sauvignon Blanc; while Bordeaux blends Sauvignon with Semillon (and a touch of oak) for a richer interpretation. All three regions also produce sweet versions of each of their native varieties, which can prove wonderfully indulgent bottlings.