And now for something a little different – the wines of St Péray (07 Ardeche, ARA) are not often seen, but your chance comes in early September when they hold their wine festival 30 August – 1 September 2024– Fête des vins et du jumelage.
Saint-Péray is the southernmost part of the northern Rhône wine region just west of Valence.
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, ARA)
In the UK the excellent Yapp Brothers stock Saint-Péray : “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.”
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