Frederic Cossard 'Les en Hauts' Chiroubles 2020 (100ml)

Frederic Cossard came to wine after a career in engineering and has kept that analytical streak, paired with a free-spirited, natural touch.

He sources fruit from across Burgundy and beyond, working with trusted growers and vinifying with no additives, including no sulphur. The wines are known for their purity, fragrance and supple textures, sitting at the intersection of classical Burgundy and the natural wine world.

Cossard’s instinctive approach and openness to experimentation have made him a fixture on adventurous wine lists.

France’s wine story begins with Greek settlers, Roman farmers and medieval monasteries that shaped famous regions. It remains the benchmark for many of the world’s classic wine styles, built on a deep history of regional identity and an appellation system designed to protect it. AOC rules outline where grapes can be grown and how wines are made, giving structure to places such as Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne and the Rhône. Key grapes like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah all find their most famous expressions here, alongside countless regional varieties.

From the driven whites of the Loire to the rich blends of the south, French wine is ultimately about clarity of origin and a commitment to balance, and modern France continues to evolve, combining precise regional traditions with a renewed focus on sustainability and site expression.

Beaujolais sits at the southern end of Burgundy but has a completely distinct identity shaped by the Gamay grape. The region is best known for bright, juicy reds with soft tannins and freshness. The ten named crus, such as Morgon Fleurie and Moulin à Vent, to name a few, offer more structured, serious expressions from villages. Granite-rich soils and a warmer climate help Gamay show both lift and depth, with a strong focus on natural winemaking across the region.

Although part of the wider Burgundy region, Beaujolais stands on its own for vibrant, approachable wines that are easy to enjoy yet full of personality. Producers are also making interesting Beaujolais Blanc from Chardonnay.