WWMD: French wines with a Lowcountry flair

What would Margaret drink?

Margaret Pearman is a certified sommelier under the Court of Master Sommeliers and is responsible for curating the award-winning wine list at Charlie’s Coastal Bistro. Here is her sipping suggestion for October:

Rollers sommeliers teamed up with local artist and owner of Charlie’s Coastal Bistro, Margaret Pearman, to bring you these beautiful French wines with a Lowcountry flair. Featured wines include a dry sparkling wine from Limoux, a crisp and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc from Touraine and a Cote du Rhone blend, the perfect fall red for all your favorite stewed meat dishes.

Over a year ago, Rollers Wine & Spirits approached me to collaborate on a private label project. The goal was to have a high-quality wine unique to the Lowcountry. The wine would be its signature suggestion for tourists looking to take a little something home, yet also appealing to locals. I was responsible for creating the artwork that would be on the label. (I have been painting for 10 years.) After a few trials and errors, I landed on the pieces that I thought would be the best representation of our area. It felt like it was forever, but the wines have finally arrived from France. All of those involved in the project are very happy with the results.

So next time you need an everyday bottle or special gift, I recommend stopping by Rollers to grab one of these. All are priced under $20 retail.

1. Lowcountry Bubbles

Hails from the Limoux region of France, where the first sparkling wines were produced in the 15th century by monks. Vibrant, floral and fresh. 

2. Calibogue White

This one is quickly becoming my house wine. Sourced from the Touraine region of Loire, it puts Sancerre to the test. Complex aromas of lychee, peach and mineral. 

3. Bow Hog Red

For a Cotes du Rhone, this is an overachiever. A little bit of barrel aging integrates the tannins. Black cherry, cassis and black pepper fill the mouth.