An invaluable handbook for both the connoisseur and the amateur,including over 200 major appellations.

 FRENCH WINES is a compelling new illustrated guide to the wines of France. Every wine-producing area is brought to life with a map, specially commissioned photographs,and clear, informative, region-by-region descriptions and tours.

 FRENCH WINES is a compelling new illustrated guide to the wines of France. Every wine-producing area is brought to life with a map, specially commissioned photographs,and clear, informative, region-by-region descriptions and tours. WINES IN DETAIL Individual appellations and their wines are described clearly and concisely, along with unpretentious tasting notes, details of the key vintagesand best times to drink the wines.For ease of identification,great wines are described alongside illustrations of their labels and bottles.Annotated wine labels also explain the different elements in any label and what they tell you about your chosen bottle. PRACTICAL INFORMATION A comprehensive glossary explains the subtleties of the subject and there ishelpful advice on tasting,buying and storing your French wines.

How to Use this Guide

Foreword

INTRODUCING FRENCH WINES

The History of Wine

How Wine is Made

Reading the Label

Wine Tasting

The Language of Wine

Serving Wine

Food and Wine

Food and Wine Glossary

Starting a Cellar

Investing in Wine

Vintages

Touring

THE FRENCH WINE REGIONS

ALSACE AND LORRAINE

BORDEAUX

BURGUNDY

CHAMPAGNE

JURA AND SAVOIE

LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON

THE LOIRE VALLEY

PROVENCE AND CORSICA

THE RHONE VALLEY

SOUTHWEST FRANCE

VIN DE PAYS

Index

Acknowledgments