
Because of the ocean climate, Normandy is not known for wine, but there have been vineyards in the past that have produced inexpensive boxed wine. There is only one small winery in Upper Normandy, which is locally renowned for producing excellent wine that goes well with the famous meals in the area. Arpents du Soleil is the name of the local winery. The climate in the northern part of Normandy is a sunny and dry microclimate. In 2007, this vineyard produced 15,000 bottles of wine. Produced in Normandy, Pommeau de Normandie is a drink made with pears and apples, two of Normandy’s specialites. Pommeau is produced by mixing apple eau-de-vie with slightly fermented apple must. This raises the alcohol level high enough so that the yeast will survive. Without yeasts, the fermentation process will stop. After fermentation, the producers are left with an apple scented juice that is quite sweet. The final alcohol content is between 16 and 18%. The process is known as mutage and is essentially the same technique that is used for making vins doux naturels. Pommeau is a mistelle. This is a French term that means partially fermented fruit fortified with alcohol.
The Fournier Family cider story started in 1943. Located in South Normandy in the middle of Dukes of Alençon province, the landscape is offering a mix between green valley and strong hills. Apples and pear trees are growing up on the hills. It is in this typical and original environment that Fournier Cider is cultivating their orchard. The fruit variety selected is giving character, authenticity and quality. The Cidre Fournier Spirit is having under control quality in their growth over: love of the land, the orchards, qualitative fruits and product well made.
perfect with savory dishes like meat and buckwheat pancake. It can be mixed with fruit liquor for cocktail.
Pommeau de Normandie a mistel type of beverage. Same process as Floc de Gascogne, Pineau des Charentes and Ratafia de Champagne.
It is made with 2/3 Unfermented sweet fruit juice (apple and pear) with 1/3 distilled alcohol at 51% ABV (Calvados).
Excellent with desert, such as French crepes (very thin pancakes).
Paul Hobbs George Menini Estate Chardonnay is made from 100 percent Chardonnay.
Located on the southwestern edge of the Russian River Valley appellation in an area known as the Sebastopol Hills, this Chardonnay from George Menini Estate displays pale straw in color and boasts an elixir of white and yellow florals, tart yellow apple, bartlett pear, and baking spice. A precise yet supple wine with notes of juicy Gravenstein apple, vibrant sea salt, and crushed rock, complemented by a cool-climate zing of acidity. An impressive level of complexity for a young vineyard.
Review:
Lots of pears and pear blossom with lemon rind undertones. Medium body with plenty of fruit and energetic acidity with a pumice undertone. Some terra-cotta, too. Flavorful finish. Salty, too. Complex. Lots going on here. Drink or hold.
-James Suckling 97 Points
Boussey Aloxe Corton Les Valozieres is made from 100 percent Pinot Noir.
The Aloxe Corton appellation is located right between the Cotes de Nuits and Cotes de Beaune, at the bottom of the Hill of Corton. The old vines planted in the village of "Valozieres" enjoy a perfect location and a specific terroir made of red/brown colored soils with a few silica veins and silex, limestone components, leading to solid and structured wines.
The wine displays a dark ruby and garnet color. The aromas are classic of the appellation with small red fruits, developping peony, jasmine, leather, truffle aromas with age. A firm structure, rich and chewy tannins, and a great length.