WASHINGTON — In America, we celebrate the declaration of our independence from British rule on July 4. In France, the citizen’s commitment to freedom is observed on July 14.
Bastille Day, the national holiday known as La Fête Nationale in France, commemorates the anniversary of the storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789. The Bastille was a notorious prison that was the symbol of the total and arbitrary power of King Louis’ ancient regime. This protest sparked a movement that grew into a national uprising known as the French Revolution. Upon seizing the Bastille, the French people declared that the king’s power was no longer absolute.
Today, the French recognize Bastille Day as the end of the monarchy and beginning of the modern republic. The lasting significance of the event was in its recognition that power could be held by ordinary citizens, not the king. The battle cry of the revolution, “liberty, equality, fraternity,” eventually became the new nation’s motto.
While the French celebrate the anniversary of their independence much the same way that we do in America — with parades, fireworks, concerts, and parties — I would suggest that we can do our share to pay homage to freedom in France, and around the world, with a glass or two of French wine.
Viva la France!
Those of you who know me know that I love starting off every celebration with a glass of sparkling wine — and of course, on Bastille Day, the bubbles must come from Champagne. Non-Vintage Mailly Brut Reserve Grand Cru is a wonderful way to declare your independence. A blend of chardonnay and pinot noir, this famous cooperative uses only grapes grown in the grand cru vineyards of Mailly. This completely dry bubbly features flavors of baked brioche, Granny Smith and Gala apples and just a touch of nectarine. Tropical notes of guava and pineapple are carried across the finish by precise bubbles. $40
The French know a thing or two about rosé wines, having been given credit for making some of the best versions of this pink beauty in the world. Rosé wines are a good choice when you’re trying to keep cool on a hot day. The 2016 Mirabeau Rosé from the Côtes de Provence region is a blend of syrah, grenache and cinsault. The delicate nose offers up aromas of strawberry and red berry fruit on the bouquet and charming flavors of raspberry, watermelon and strawberry pie in the mouth. Bright red currents highlight the refreshing finish. It pairs well with salads, grilled meats, seafood, sushi and other Asian cuisines. $15
The Loire Valley of France is often referred to as the “garden of France,” due to its diverse wine-growing regions. The Sancerre appellation lies on the left bank of the Loire River where the sauvignon blanc grape reigns supreme. The aptly named 2014 Leon Vatan Mmmm Sauvignon Blanc is the perfect summertime thirst quencher. Scents of lime and grapefruit dominate the nose with an added pop of minerality. Flavors of green apple, ripe pear and green melon are bolstered on the palate by tangy acidity. Notes of wet stone round out the long refreshing finish. Perfect for summer fare such as salads, ceviche and grilled fish. $18
Not all Burgundy wines have to be outrageously expensive. There are a few gems that deliver both charm and finesse at a price somewhere between a bargain and a splurge. The Côte de Beaune region is home to the 2014 Bichot Savigny Les Beaune. This absolutely delicious pinot noir has a deep ruby color with a nose bursting with scents of red fruit and dried cherries on the bouquet and flavors of fresh strawberry, raspberry and red cherry on the palate — it’s fun and easy to drink. The abundant acidity keeps the fruit in balance on the medium bodied finish. Delicious with grilled salmon, pork loin, or simple enough on its own with a good revolution! $25
