Eric Texier, Chat Fou, Vin de France 2024

You could think of this as a lighter, brighter, fruitier and more exuberant version of a Côtes-du-Rhône red (although it's just a humble 'Vin de France'). With nearly half the blend being Cinsault, it's full of crunchy, juicy red fruit. Open-top fermentation with native yeasts gives it a beautiful texture. And at a modest 12.5% ABV it's no bruiser either. It's organic, unfined and unfiltered and bottled with just the minimum of sulphur. If you're after a Rhône valley red that's made to a different mould this is one to go for.

No need to plan a meal around this one - it's just as happy on its own. Grilled lamb, roast aubergines or Mediterranean mezze bring out its crunchy fruit nicely.

When it comes to winemaking, Éric Texier, an ex-nuclear engineer turned vigneron, is a man of conviction who does things his own way and who also likes to push the boundaries a bit. He's no zealot, though, and his wines are made to be accessible and enjoyable. His focus lies in coaxing the best out of his vineyards, particularly in the forgotten appellation of Brézème, where he's become a leading force. He works organically and favours whole bunch pressing, wild yeasts, and open-top fermenters, aiming to find the traditional character of the Northern Rhône. His wines aren't about flamboyance or heavy-handed extraction. Instead, he tries to open a window into the region's unique terroir, for a glimpse into the way wines were made in times past.