La P’tite Pierre, Blanc 2022

(2024) From the Grand Chais de France, a large producer with wineries across France, this is a blend of Colombard, Ugni Blanc and Gros Manseng. It's labelled as a Vin de France, the cross-regional appellation, though those varieties all speak of the Southwest. It's what I'd call a very handy, all-purpose summer sipper. Aromas are clean and fresh, red apples and citrus, a little hint of creaminess. With only 11% alcohol it could be a fine, cheap garden wine if we enjoy an Indian summer, with crisp and dry flavours yet abundant, pert fruitiness making it easy to sip on its own or match to salads and lighter dishes. Not every wine has to be full of complexity and intrigue: some are just the right wine at the right price for everyday drinking. Watch the video for more information.