French vineyards - Michael Busselle

France has been described as a country of vineyards, since they are to be found in almost every region throughout the land. They have, however, remained proudly autonomous over the centuries, with even adjacent vineyards having strong individual characteristics and the boundaries between them being jealously guarded and controlled by the licensing of appellations, of which there are many hundreds. As a result, it can be very difficult for even the most knowledgeable enthusiast to discover the full extent of the vineyards and the astonishing choice that they provide.;This text is a complete traveller's guide to the vineyards of France and is designed to provide a practical and accessible means of locating each and every vineyard in the country. It lists all the active appellations, from the smallest vin de Pays to the most important Grand Cru, and includes details of the principal wine villages, Routes des Vins, chateaux and places of interest in each region.;Information concerning the permitted grape varieties and the style and character of the wines of each area is included, together with lists of the most important growers and Caves co-operatives where they may be tested and bought. Details of all the major wine fairs and festivals in each region are also included, together with a directory of grape varieties, their characteristics and a glossary of terms. A final section of the book examines the most popular routes through France and shows the most readily accessible vineyards for those who wish to buy wine on their return to the Channel ports, with advice on bulk-buying, bottling and storing wines.