The series of Intelligent Guides to Wine and Top Vineyards is based on the best-selling book, Wines of France. Each guide deals with one wine-producing region of France, and is divided into two parts.The first part describes the region and the types of wines it produces, how they reflect the area and the grape varieties that are grown, what is traditional and what is modern, and how styles are evolving. Reference wines are suggested to typify each area. Recent vintages are summarized in vintage charts.The second part has detailed profiles of the leading producers, ranging from those who may dominate an appellation to those who define the cutting edge. The profiles identify the best of tradition and innovation in the region. Each profile describes the producer's aims for his wines, and the personality and philosophy behind them. References wines are suggested for each producer. Each section of producers starts with a map to show their locations to help plan itineraries.This Guide is the indispensable means for understanding Champagne, tasting its wines, and identifying its producers