THE AUVERGNE
The Auvergne was once one of the most important wine producing areas in France planted with Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Gamay d'Auvergne. Loads of coal heading to Paris (the area's other precious natural resource) would also bring the area's wines to supply the bustling Auvergnat bistro trade that was booming in Paris in the mid-nineteenth century. Two world wars, de-population and a shift of emphasis from agriculture to industry meant that winemaking in the area declined steeply. However, the Auvergne now has a new generation of winemakers recognising the potential of the ground and the vines. We think some of these producers are amongst the most exciting in France.