Trevor Gulliver feels that the small wine producers of
France are best suited to St. John’s
food. Here are some French selections whose
terroir makes them a good match for earthy foods.
Hugues Beaulieu Picpoul de Pinet Coteaux du Languedoc 2002 ($6)An unusual varietal from Languedoc; bright green-apple and peach fruit.
J. Vidal Fleury Côtes du Ventoux 2000 ($8)A Provençal selection with bright, simple, fresh fruit and earthy flavors.
Jean-Michel Sorbe Reuilly La Commanderie 2002 ($11)A juicy Sauvignon Blanc from the
Loire with zippy fruit, firm acid structure, and mineral notes.
Domaine d’Andezon Côtes du Rhône 2001 ($12)This dense, spicy 100 percent Syrah delivers meaty flavors and a long, chunky finish.
Domaine Christian Moreau Père & Fils Chablis AC 2001 ($18)Crisp and minerally with edgy fruit and a long, bracing finish.
Château Clarke Listrac 1999 ($27)A Bordeaux property owned by the Rothschild family; soft, supple, and inviting.
Domaine Joseph Drouhin Gevrey-Chambertin 2000 ($34)Lots of finesse and style with clean, racy Pinot Noir fruit, and lovely flavors of raspberry and cherry.
Domaine Josmeyer Gewurztraminer Les Folastries Alsace 2001 ($36)Enticing spice and rose petal fruit in a riveting white from Alsace.
Mas de Daumas Gassac 2001 ($50)A lush, floral Cabernet-driven blend with herbs, spices, and power; seductive and lovely.