Explore Burgundy and Loire

We will explore the elegant, crisp and aromatic whites of the Loire - often referred to as the 'garden of France' thanks to its lush, verdant countryside. Here Sancerre and Pouilly Fume reign as the supreme examples of the Loire's best known grape variety, Sauvignon Blanc. Moving south to Burgundy we find the wines which have captured many a wine-lover's heart; Chablis, Meursault, Gevery-Chambertin, a veritable roll call of wine royalty! We will discover exactly what it is that makes these wines so special and learn how to pick up a bargain or two with a little bit of insider knowledge.

Part 1: Loire

Welcome to white wine country. Whilst Savignon Blanc is currently recieving plenty of attention on the global stage, it is often overlooked that the home of this grape variety is right here in North West France. These examples are elegant, herbaceous and zingy with citrus-tinged acidity; a perfect foil to the local rich and creamy goat's cheese. But moving towards the coast we will uncover the lesser known gems of the region such as the ripe, appley Chenin Blanc from the chalky soils of Anjou. Then on to Nantes for a look at the bone dry, summer classic Muscadet. Get ready to set your taste buds tingling!

Part 2: Burgundy

And so to Burgundy, a kingdom steeped in tradition, romance and supreme quality. Here the grape varieties are deceptively simple: Chardonnay for white, Pinot Noir for red. But not just any white: rich, mouthfilling, creamy soft whites with a startlingly crisp acidity. Whilst the red, at their best, are succulent, complex, multi-layered wines with a touch of earthy spice to contrast the velvety, sweet cherry flavour. But to master the region, and its notoriously elaborate labels, you need to understand its geography. Here the difference between neighbouring vinyards, let alone villages, can be vast. We will guide you down the Cote D'or, Burgundy's heartland, with its myriad of tiny producers who farm equally tiny plots and on to the up and coming Cote Chalonnaise, where there is still great value to be found. It is a fascinating world to dive into.

All tastings include: a minimum of 6 wines sourced locally so you can find them easily if you like them, full tasting notes, tasting sheet, use of professional tastings glasses and nibbles.