The closest I got from celebrating Bastille Day this year was thanks to a nice little red wine from Ardeche called Petanque.
Petanque is also a sport popular mainly in Southern France. It combines social gathering, elements of comedy and sometimes a little kitty for tournament winners.
To get back to Petanque, the wine, it comes to us thanks to a family farm that has been in existence since 1670.
Named Mas de Libian, the farm also grows fruits and grains and has been in the same Thibon family ever since.
They started bottling their own wine in 1995 rather than sell to the local cooperative. They use natural methods.
The Vin de Petanque (I bought the 2006 vintage) is made of Grenache Noir.
The winemaker is Helene Thibon (profile in French) who also belongs to Vins d’Autheurs (launched in 2005).
Vins d’Autheurs (info in French only) can be best described as the Indie Network for small and talented winemakers.
They stage a yearly event where wine lovers (amateurs) get a chance to meet the creators (autheurs).
Vin de Petanque is a young wine coming from old vines (40 to 50 years old) ready to drink now and retails for around $12.00.
To finish with a little local flavor, Mas de Libian is in the village of St Marcel d’Ardeche also known for its underground caves and its stunning views of Mont Ventoux which is famous with Tour de France fans.
Sante!
Also on Ardeche: Looking for a sunny yet peaceful vacation…take an ‘Escapade’ to Ardeche
Other Bastille Day stories: Celebrating Bastille Day, Gourmet Food and Wine