The co-op is still an important – and large – component of French wine production. Co-ops can introduce the economies of scale for small growers and for farmers who have grown grapes for years but don’t want, or don’t have the equipment or skills to make and bottle their own wine, provide a way to market. Oisly et Thesee has consistently been regarded as one of France’s better wine co-ops and a look at their historical membership lists tell you the story of wine marketing. Set up as a confederation of two members they grew to as large as fifty-five members but are now around twenty. This decline in numbers is due to generational change and the increase in the number of youngsters who have done oenology training and are prepared to put their family resources where their mouths are and bottle their own wine. Nevertheless, Oisly et Thesee continue to produce some very drinkable and great value wines. They are highly skilled and have top winemakers in their employ. (CW 10/09/18)