In many people’s minds, the word “après-ski” brings up visions of warm fires and hot chocolate, but in reality, it encompasses something lot more than that.
There are hundreds of people who are passionate about skiing, it’s also an opportunity (or possibly an excuse) to savour the rich flavours of French Alpine wines. This book will introduce you to the greatest après-ski wine experiences that can be found in the French Alps.
Whether you are just looking to relax after a day of skiing or you are interested in discovering the gastronomic history of the region, this guide will help you.
An Introduction to French Alpine Wines
In the Savoie and Haute-Alpes areas of France, many of the most distinctive wines in France are produced. The French Alps are home to some of the most distinctive wines in France. Whites that are crisp and fragrant, and reds that are robust and spicy, are produced in these regions, and they are ideal for drinking after a day spent in the snow.
Jacquère: Is a white grape that is indigenous to the region of Savoie. It is renowned for having a mild and mineral-driven flavour character. It goes exceptionally well with traditional cheeses from the Alpine region as well as marine meals.
Mondeuse: The Mondeuse grape is a red grape that is used to make wines that have a dark hue, a lively acidity, and aromas that are reminiscent of dark cherries and spices. The combination is a wonderful complement to substantial meat meals as well as charcuterie.
Roussette: The Roussette grape variety is another white grape variety that is renowned for its flowery and honeyed overtones. Because of these characteristics, it is an excellent choice for an aperitif after skiing.
For those planning ski holidays in France, exploring the local wine culture can be the perfect way to end your day on the slopes. There are a number of destinations in the French Alps that take great delight in providing travellers with these unique gems, which enable them to enjoy the authentic flavours of the mountains.
The Top 5 Après-Ski Bars for Wine Lovers
After-ski destinations in the French Alps are littered with places where wine aficionados may relax in a fashionable setting. Here is a list of five places that are absolutely not to be missed because of their atmosphere and wine selections:
- Le White in Courchevel 1850
There is a sophisticated après-ski experience available at Le White, which is well-known for its stylish decor and vast wine selection. Their handpicked flights of Savoie wines are worth trying out. - La Folie Douce in Val d’Isère
This club, which is well-known for its bustling après-ski scene, mixes high-energy entertainment with a refined wine bar that features regional favourites. - Chalet des Îles in Chamonix
A delightful location that offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains, Chalet des Îles is an ideal location for enjoying a glass of Mondeuse while watching the sun go down. - Le Farçon Wine Cellar in La Tania
For an after-ski experience that is genuinely sumptuous, the modest wine cellar of this restaurant that has been awarded Michelin-starred restaurant’s provides a unique range of Alpine wines. - La Cave des Grands Crus in Méribel
An ambiance that is both comfortable and polished can be found at this cosy wine bar, which focusses in rare vintages and wines from the Alpine region.
Pairing Alpine Cuisine with Local Wines
There is no such thing as a ski vacation in the French Alps that would be complete without indulging in some decadent Alpine cuisine, and the experience is truly elevated when those dishes are paired with the appropriate wine. Listed below are some classic combinations that we would recommend to both novices and seasoned aficionados that are just starting out:
Raclette: When paired with a Jacquère that is crisp and mineral-driven, raclette cheese, which is known for its creamy richness, is an ideal pairing.
Fondue Savoyarde: To complement the naturally nutty and surprisingly subtle tastes of fondue, a glass of Roussette or Apremont is a great choice. Fondue Savoyarde serves as an excellent example.
Diots (Savoyard Sausages): Serve these flavourful sausages with a powerful Mondeuse to highlight their smokey essence. Diots are a type of sausage that is often known as Savoyard sausages.
Tartiflette: This robust meal of potatoes, Reblochon cheese, and bacon particularly shines when coupled with a fruity Chignin-Bergeron. Tartiflette is a dish that is known for its deliciousness.
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