I wandered into Costco last weekend, not expecting enlightenment — maybe a rotisserie chicken, some socks, and a bottle of bourbon. But there it was: the “Taste of France” gift set, a brown leatherette case so sleek it looked like something Hemingway himself might’ve slung over his shoulder on the way to a Paris picnic. Four bottles from France for under sixty bucks. Now that’s what I call diplomacy.
This isn’t your run-of-the-mill gift basket with mystery juice inside. Each wine comes from a genuine French appellation I actually visited back in my study days — when I spent more time tasting than sleeping.
Les Prieurs de la Capelle 2022 – St. Émilion
A Merlot-driven right-bank beauty with plump red plum, cocoa dust, and that telltale limestone minerality of Saint-Émilion. It’s soft-spoken at first, but give it air and it grows confident — like a good rugby forward finding his stride. James Suckling gave it 90-91 points, and I’d agree. Pair it with roast lamb or, if you’re me, leftover turkey sandwiches and a quiet fire.
Prestige des Princes 2023 – Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Now this one’s a heavyweight. Grenache leads the charge, Syrah and Mourvèdre bringing structure and spice. Dark berries, lavender, and that Provençal garrigue — you can practically smell the warm stones under the Rhône sun. I visited the domaine years ago, and the winemaker told me, “We don’t make wine, we make stories.” He wasn’t wrong. This is your big meal companion — beef tenderloin, duck confit, or a friend who never stops talking.
André Goichot 2023 – Haut-Côtes de Beaune
A charming Burgundy that captures the essence of the Côte d’Or. Pinot Noir done right — earthy, elegant, with cherries, subtle oak, and that whisper of forest floor. I remember the limestone hills of Beaune and the winemaker’s stained hands, his grin as he poured barrel samples that made me believe in patience. Chill it slightly and pour alongside mushroom risotto or roasted salmon.
Domaine des Trottières 2023 – Anjou Rouge
From the Loire Valley, this Cabernet Franc sings with red currant, graphite, and a hint of pepper. It’s a lean, lively style — perfect for those who prefer their wines as athletic as a tennis rally. I walked the vineyards of Anjou once, mist hanging over the vines like a silk scarf, and knew this region’s quiet charm would always stay with me. Great with charcuterie, aged Gouda, or simple roast chicken.
Here’s the thing — at $59.99, this set feels like a travel journal in liquid form. Four French regions, four expressions, each with its own accent and attitude, all wrapped in a leather case that you can reuse for picnics, tastings, or to smuggle in your next BYOB dinner.
It’s elegant, affordable, and — most importantly — drinkable. Costco somehow managed to package a semester of my French wine education into one tidy bundle. If you’re looking for a holiday gift that speaks the universal language of “yes, I care — but I also know value,” this is it.
