Tipples To Try On French River Cruises Around Gascony
Hop aboard one of the many French river cruises in the Gascony region for a relaxed and romantic holiday.
The Gascony region in France makes for a fun, interesting getaway. If you love the occasional evening drink, you’ll not regret hopping aboard one of the French river cruises in the area, as there are many interesting types of tipple which are traditionally popular here. What’s a better way to spend a relaxed, romantic holiday than sampling some of the country’s most impressive alcohol? Here are the specialties you should definitely try.
Authentic Armagnac
This alcoholic beverage is a signature specialty of Gascony. While it does share some similarities with its counterpart cognac, Armagnac is different from because of the way it is produced. 95 percent of the drink is distilled only once, using a specific form of continuous still – the Armagnac alembic. It is then aged in 400-litre oak barrels and stored in cellars. It can even be matured for up to 50 years, before being packaged in glass bottles.
It is usually produced by smaller family businesses rather than large global conglomerates. This makes it a revered specialty, which is ideally savoured in its place of origin. The best way to do this is via one of the area’s French river cruises.
Wine from Chateau Bellevue la Foret
While in Gascony, you shouldn’t miss visiting the famous vineyard Chateau Bellevue la Foret. For wine lovers, this gorgeous estate is like a beautiful paradise. Spread out over 270 acres, it’s the largest single privately-owned wine estate in the southwest of France. The wines produced here have won several accolades and awards worldwide, making them highly sought after.
Some of the must-trys include the Classic Red and Mavro red wine, while La Forêt Rosé is a rosé known for the freshness and vivacity of its flavour. Among their range of acclaimed whites, the Petit Manseng and the Viognier - Roussanne are absolute favourites. These varieties definitely make for an interesting winetasting session, which is a fun way to spice up a romantic holiday.
How to Get There
If you’re wondering how to visit these places in Gascony, it’s easiest to make reservations aboard one of the many French river cruises that venture into this part of the country. You’ll be able to explore these hidden gems in France without the hassle of travelling by land or struggling to book accommodation and meals in the usual fashion. This saves you from the stress of airport check-ins or the rush to reach the train stations it time. It also makes for an ideal honeymoon trip, as you will have an ample amount of time to spend with your loved one while you explore stunning destinations in France together.
During your relaxed cruise holiday, don’t forget to try out all the specialities of tipple mentioned in this article. It will surely be a holiday that remains etched in your memory.
Author Plate
Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, the UK's most respected provider of all-inclusive, luxury French river cruises. Part of a team of experienced barging aficionados, Paul is first in line to endorse the perks of a slow-paced barge cruise to anyone looking for a unique holiday experience.
