WWF New Year French Classic Whites Case

Wine has been made in Jurançon, just outside the city of Pau in Béarn, next to the old Kingdom of Navarre, for many centuries and enjoyed great prestige when it was the favourite tipple of Henri IV. Then the wines were mostly on the sweet side and it was another Henri who led the creation of a dry-style Jurançon for more everyday drinking. This Jurançon Sec comes from Henri Ramonteu, who makes it better than anyone. This unoaked, grapefruit like, full-bodied white with good grip is made from two local varieties, gros manseng and camaralet and is the perfect partner for trout.

The vines at Domaine Cady are beautifully situated on organically farmed, north-facing slopes overlooking the Loire. The wine was made in a large amphora which brings both precision and minerality to add to the apricot and quince fruit notes, as well as persistence and an appetising chalkiness.

Run by fifth generation brothers, Thomas and Jean-Daniel Boeckel, the Boeckel estate in the village of Mittelbergheim offers great value. Planted on limestone soils, this riesling offers floral and white blossom notes combined with yellow plum and nectarine. The core is fresh and lively and this is a delightful bone-dry white that will pair well with roast chicken or butternut squash risotto.