Brittany Ferries & Brittany Tourism showcase Breton Wines & Whiskey
Jacinta From Travelbiz celebrates the best of Breton wines, whiskey and cider at a tasting evening in Dublin’s Hyde on Lemon Street. Hosted by Brittany Ferries and Brittany Tourism, the event was a showcase of the region’s delights, highlighting popular drinks, exclusive to this part of northern France.
The lovely ladies from Fuzion PR introduced the very knowledgeable Lesley Williams (and true Breton aficionado) to lead us through the various tipples. From cider (distinctly floral in flavour) to a 2022 vintage Chardonnay (light melon notes with hints of citrus) and a crisp Cabernet Franc Rose (think tart raspberry), both from the Vignoble de Rhuys. Having trained in Champagne, the owners revived this vineyard in Brittany. Then we tasted a Pinot Noir (yummy carmelised butter, anyone?) made from grolleau vines called Les Longues Vignes, made on the banks of the river Rance, near St Malo. Pursuing its Celtic challenge (remember the fabulous Celtic Music Festival at L’Orient), an independent family-run Breton distillery Warenghem is producing exceptional single malt whiskey and another Breton speciality, Chouchen (mead).
Chris Jones from Brittany Ferries spoke passionately of their ferry routes: Cork/Roscoff, Rosslare/Cherbourg and the newest baby Rosslare/Bilbao whilst Celine Thounazeau from Brittany Tourism was equally eloquent in describing the wonderful region. Brittany has more than 1,000 historic houses and magnificent chateaux, a very relaxed and friendly ambience, tons of outdoor activities and adventures, nautical escapades and, naturellement, the food and wine! Vive Bretagne!