Since time immemorial, French white wines have been among the best in the world.But in recent years, vineyards have improved beyond recongition.

Increased consumer awareness has driven up production techniques and raised the bar for quality.

Growers and banks have ploughed significant investment into new equipment and young winemakers are increasingly learning at oenological school, rather than relying on family know how.

All of which means there’s never been a better time to buy French white wines. And a number of recent vintages are on offer throughout November at Shropshire supermarket Waitrose, in Newport.

Bouchard Aine et Fils, White Burgundy 2008, is available at £6.29 from £8.49.

It’s a good entry point for those looking to discover the wonderful wines of Burgundy.

It has an excellent Burgundian Chardonnay character with citrus and pear fruit notes. A third of the wine has been aged in new wood, giving it a creamy feel and it is perfect to accompany richly-sauced fish dishes or roast chicken.

Pont du Milieu 2007 Pouilly Fume, Loire, is a well balanced, bright and fresh sauvignon blanc now available at £8.99, from £11.99.

It has a light palate and distinct mineral character and shows good and subtle citrus fruit characters and slight hints of smokiness.

It has a long length and is the perfect partner to baked clams, goats cheese or white fish.

The dry variety is produced in the Loire Valley and is popular both in France and, thanks to the region’s strong export links, with drinks around the world.

Chateau Thieuley 2007 Bordeaux Blanc, is also reduced, now at £6.99 from £8.99.

It is an aromatic wine with a good intensity of exotic flavours, particularly citrus and pineapple.

Chateau Thieuley is full-bodied and dry and has a smokey finish. It is an aromatic and fruity Bordeaux white.

It is an excellent partner to white fish, asparagus or mussels in a white wine sauce.

The vintage is made using sauvignon blanc and semillon grape varieties, which combine with brilliant effect.