Thirst-quenching French Wines to Enjoy while watching the Olympics

The torches are almost lit and the opening ceremony is almost here! Most Parisiens have left Paris as spectators flood the city with flags, bells and whistles. If you are not lucky enough to be one of those spectators then I’m sure you have your place booked on the couch and reminders set on your phone for all your favourite sports and games. I know I have!

I don't know about you, but I like to plan ahead, most of the time, and watching the Olympics from afar is no different. It’s actually even better as you get your comfortable spot on the couch, good snacks and a good easy-going thirst-quenching bottle of wine. After all, watching sports is thirsty work!

Thirst-quenching French wines, vins de soif or “glou glou” (as the French say) are made all over the world but let’s embrace the French wines themselves given that the Olympics are in France this year. These wines are bright, vibrant, are lower in alcohol (so can be enjoyed any time of day!) and all have an emotional component, perfect for inspiring cheer and joy as we cheer on all our athletes from the comfort of our couch!

What makes a vin de soif? All Cavavin wines ought to quench a thirst and vin de soif do just that but do so joyously and make you feel good! These wines are not oaky or tannic as all of this would impact on their gulpability. They’re not Dark and Complex, but Smooth and Juicy, or Explosive and Fruity and don’t require too much concentration or distract from the main focus - hurdles, a sprint to the finish or that perfect landing, These are not age-worthy wines, they’re made to drink young, are full of lively acidity, are crisp and zesty and of course taste good.

I have chosen a selection of sparkling, rosé, whites and reds that can be enjoyed from any vessel and at any time of the day!

Domaine Lafond - Côtes du Rhône 2022 €17.95 - Tavel 2023 Rosé €23
Two relaxed wines that will bring pure joy and keep you calm as you watch from afar. The Grenache grape is soft, bursting with fruit flavours with a lingering richness. Pair with athletics or rowing!


J. Mourat Collection 2023 - €17.95
The prized Mourat Collection that may enable a prize or two for your favourites. These wines are the perfect accompaniment to any of the games - begin with a rosé, then enjoy a charming Chardonnay/Chenin Blanc and let things get a little serious (with a cheer or two!) with the Gamay red blend. A collection of wines that will add so much to the Games!


J. Mourat O.V.N.I. 2023 - Sauvignon Blanc/Chardonnay - Grolleau rosé - €19.95
No Games is complete without the prized Mourat O.V.N.I - the perfect glass of rosé or white that you can guarantee results with, any time of day. A zingy lip-smacking Grolleau Rosé and a mouth-watering Sauvignon with a hint of Chardonnay that will bring joy to any occasion no matter what the result!


Louis de Grenelle - Saumur Grand Cuvée Brut €29.95 - Saumur demi-sec rouge Cuvée Acajou €26.95

No Olympic Games is complete without a Sparkling Crémant wine and these are two must-haves. A beautifully golden Crémant that gives a richer flavour than you think and a sparkling red that has a beautiful subtle sweetness and a lingering “I shouldn’t like this, but I do!” The perfect pair of distractions for more tense moments or to celebrate the Opening Ceremony with of course!


Natural Wines - Esquisse Orange Wine €25 - Penser Nature Grolleau/Cabernet Sauvignon €25
Excitement has been building for the Olympics for months now and the same can be said for when you taste our range of excellent Natural and Orange wines. These are relaxed wines and they will bring a sense of calm to all and allow a moment to reflect on all that has happened in the Games!


I couldn’t finish this piece without mentioning two French wines that stopped me in a moment for how fun, drinkable and just how delicious and well made they are. They are the perfect accompaniment to your Olympic Games - so fun, smooth and utterly delicious! Perché Bio - Cabernet Franc/Syrah - Smooth & Juicy - a blend that is rich but so smooth and light. Le Pélerin - the Pilgrim - a wine that simply enables you on a pilgrimage with delightful flavours, smooth silky tastes and satisfaction at the end!
Louise O'Brien