And now for something a little different - the wines of St Peray (07 Ardeche, Rhône-Alpes) are not often seen, but your chance comes in early September when they hold their wine festival.
Saint-Péray is the southernmost part of the northern Rhône wine region just west of Valence.See map.
The Rhône is predominantly associated with spicy red wines, but Saint-Péray is unusual for the region in producing sparkling white wines - although a little still dry white is also made. This arises because the climate is just a bit cooler and the soils a little richer than its neighbours at Cornas for example. This produces wines which are more acidic and lighter in alcohol - ideal for making fizz! The principal grape varieties are Rousanne and Marsanne. The wines are highly rated - the Guide Hachette des Vins de France describes Saint-Péray as one of the best sparkling wines in France!
The Wine Festival spreads over 3 days of festivities, including music, a festival queen, cycling, rambling, a market and wine fair. As they combine it with a Twinning festival with towns in Germany, Italy and Portugal the weekend has an international feel and offers something to attract all. For more details see www.st-peray.com
St Peray (07 Ardeche, Rhone-Alpes) 1-3 September 2006
In the UK the excellent Yapp Brothers stock the Saint-Péray of Jean-Louis Thiers "Flavoursome dry, sparkling wine with a creamy mousse, and a bracing palate of mineral and nutty tastes with a lively citric zest and pleasant toasty aromas." £11.95
