Paul Avril & Fils, Le Petit Vin d'Avril, Vin de France (2022 Bottling)

There are over 200 different grape varieties used in modern wine making (from a total of over 1000). Most lesser known blends and varieties are traditional to specific parts of the world.

France is the world’s leading fine wine producer. Its key regions – Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne, Loire, Rhône, Alsace and, increasingly, Languedoc Roussillon – set the benchmark internationally for a diverse range of wine styles. The country’s grape varieties are grown, and its wines emulated, throughout the world.

With Vincent Avril at the helm, Clos des Papes is one of the most highly regarded properties; not only in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, but in the world of wine. This family estate has been certified organic for 15 years, with high attention to detail translating into impressively low production levels. Given that the vines here average over 50 years of age, they are firmly prepared and able to withstand many ordeals, including Mistral winds at 140 kilometres an hour, severe heatwaves and drought conditions. Thankfully, they were spared from the latter two in 2020.