FRANCE
ALSACE Head to France’s most northerly wine region for structured whites such as Riesling and Gewürztraminer, best teamed with superb traditional food found in the area’s many famous restaurants.
| Wines: Riesling, Gewürztraminer Renowned Producers: Hugel Zind-Humbrecht |
The LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON This was originally the poor man’s wine region. But today quality has greatly improved and you can enjoy bold, fruity reds such as Minervois and Corbières.
| Wines: Minervois, Corbières Renowned Producers: James Herrick Mas de Daumas Gassac |
PROVENCE Perhaps France’s most beautiful wine region. The lavender-clad hills and sublime beaches are the perfect setting in which to enjoy the area’s celebrated rose.
| Wines: Bandol, Côtes de Provence Renowned Producers: Domaine de Trévallon Domaine Tempier |
ITALY
The VENETO Soave, Valpolicella and sparkling Prosecco are all produced in the hills north of Venice. Look out for sweet, recioto varieties that are made from dried grapes.
| Wines: Soave, Valpolicella, Prosecco Renowned Producers: Masi Valdo |
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CAMPANIA The region around Naples was once home to the Romans’ most prized vines. Today the area’s wines are enjoying something of a renaissance, particularly the white Falanghina and the red Aglianico.
| Wines: Falanghina, Aglianico Renowned Producers: Feudi di San Gregorio Mastroberardino |
PORTUGAL
The DOURO VALLEY As well as producing the grapes for port, the area produces exciting, full-bodied reds.
| Wines: Port, full-bodied reds Renowned Producers: Quinta Do Crasto Quinta Do Dona Maria |
ALENTEJO Traditionally better known for producing corks rather than wine, the area is now home to some of the country’s most forward-looking producers.
| Wines: Modern and innovative Renowned Producers: Cartuxa Cortes de Cima |
Main Image: Enrico Strocchi, Vineyard, Flickr Creative Commons
Zaynin Kanji
