We’re now almost a third of the way through the 2015 Tour de France so we thought it would be a good time to look at the brutal route the cyclists take and see which wines we can all enjoy along the way.
Of course, Christopher Froome, Alberto Contador et al won’t be thinking about wine is they push their bodies to the limits of human endurance but at least we can (wine, not human endurance).
The Tour de France is a punishing sporting spectacle that only the bravest and fittest of athletes could ever hope to win.
It also happens to weave its way through, and near, dozens of France’s premier wine producing regions and that makes the event a magnet for sports fans and wine connoisseurs alike.
Watching the gruelling Tour de France might not put you in the mood to jump on a bike and hit the road (although we’d recommend you try it) but there’s a good chance it’ll give you a hankering for a good French wine this summer.
It just so happens that we know people who can get you good French wine… we mean ourselves if that wasn’t already obvious. We love cycling and, as you know, we love wine.
So let’s look at a few our favourites.
Chateau Doisy-Daene Barsac 2011
This 2011 white was recently added to our stock for very good reason; it’s absolutely exquisite! Decanter Magazine gave it 4.5/5 and it’s easy to see why. There are lifted flavours of intense marmalade and dried mango with refreshing acidity. Perfect for enjoying with a friend during the Tour and just as exhilarating! BUY IT HERE
Boisset Saint-Aubin 1ER Cru Sur Gamay 2012
Froome is just about holding off the pack and the excitement is incredible. You’ll need a wine that can handle this tension and this triumph most certainly can. It’s a Burgundy that offers masses of tropical fruit with a touch of rhubarb and a delicious subtle smokiness. Big events need big wines and this delivers. BUY IT HERE
Chateau Tuilerie Du Puy Cuvee Tradition
At the very least, all of the athletes at the Tour de France should be well balanced (see what we did there?) so you want that from the wine you’re enjoying during the event.
Look no further than this option. The balance and freshness are incredible and it’s rich and fruity in all the right ways. BUY IT HERE
Chateau Meaume Bordeaux Superieur 2010
The Tour riders certainly won’t be having an easy time but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a wine that’s easy to drink as you watch. This offering ticks all of the drinkability boxes and is a Bordeaux joy. BUY IT HERE
Visit our website here for a huge range of wines and spirits or pop into our store at 133 High Street, North Berwick for tastings and lots of free advice!