Mâconnais

The rolling limestone hills of the Mâconnais in southern Burgundy are lined with vineyards and grassy meadows, where sheep and cows graze happily alongside the grapes. This pastoral paradise is best known for its white wines—especially Pouilly-Fuissé and Saint-Véran. Rounded and medium-bodied, these fruity whites tend to have creamy flavors of green apple and citrus. While Chardonnay dominates, some reds are also made here, mainly from Gamay. This is the southernmost stretch of Burgundy, adjoining Beaujolais, where Gamay reigns supreme. Red Mâcon wines tend to be light, zippy and fruit forward. They are best when young, so pop that cork instead of resting them in the cellar.