France is a country full of wonder. From its rich history and language to the amazing people and food, there is much to love about the country. The French have a particular set of skills and tastes in their cuisine that have been passed on from generations. If there is one thing that you take away from France, it should be the wine.
Sure, the Eiffel Tower and Palace of Versailles are incredible places, but nothing beats a good glass of wine and a baguette.
In terms of winemaking, France is second to none with its incomparable wine varieties that give different flavors, smells, and tastes. The magic of these wines is that they provide the perfect combination of fun and elegance. If you want to know the best wine regions in France, then simply read on!
BORDEAUX
Famed throughout the world, Bordeaux is celebrated for its wine—especially its reds. For centuries, this area of France has been producing rich and refined wine with a seamless blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot grapes.
The other famous wines of this regions are Château Lafite-Rothschild, Château Margaux, Château Haut-Brion and Château Mouton Rothschild.
BURGUNDY
The Burgundy region of France is known for its many vineyards that produce a number of high-quality and popular wines, including some of the world's most expensive wines.
Burgundy is also home to many of the best vineyards and finest winemakers in the world. The climate in this area is particularly good for growing grapes which produces wines that are rich in color, flavor, and enticing aroma. Both reds and whites are produced in the region, but it is famous for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines.
CHAMPAGNE
Tucked away in the northeast corner of France is the wine region of Champagne. The region is most associated with the production of sparkling white wines that are made by the “methode champenoise”.
The vineyards of Champagne are located on the outskirts of the city, so you will be able to enjoy an afternoon at the vineyards before heading into the city for dinner and an evening out on the town.
COTES du RHONE
To get a sense of the diversity of French wines, take a look at the Côtes du Rhone region. It's located in the south of France and is bordered by the Rhône River in the east and Provence to the west. It's a well-known region for producing the finest red wine that's great for everyday drinking.
The rich wine is made from the perfect blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre grapes and has a fruity flavor with just a hint of spice.
You can try this wine with grilled steaks or lamb chops, roasted chicken or game birds; cheeses like Gorgonzola, Roquefort or goat cheese; pasta dishes with tomato sauces; or poultry dishes with cream sauce.
LANGUEDOC
Languedoc-Roussillon is the largest wine-producing region in France. Wine has been made here for millennia, and around 1.8 billion cases are produced each year.
The grape grown in this region are used to make some of the finest wines in France, including Cotes du Rhone, Chateau Neuf-du-Pape, and Banyuls.
If wine tasting is something that you enjoy, this region should definitely be on your list of places to visit at least once in your lifetime.
PROVENCE
Provence encompasses the southeast corner of France. It is a part of Occitanic and include several wine-producing subregions. The diverse geography and Mediterranean climate make it home to many different grapes and grape varieties.
The wine in this region is made from a wide variety of grapes, including Grenache, Syrah, Roussanne, Cinsault, and Sauvignon Blanc.
This is the kind of wine you want to sip with a good book or enjoy on a long train ride. The wine can be sweet and light or heavy and dark, depending on the grapes used.
Either way, Provence wines are known for their high alcohol content, which can be as high as 16 percent.
Pineau des Charentes is the most well-known Provence wine – a honeyed and almost sticky concoction often served with dessert. It's also been used in cocktails. If you're looking for something light and refreshing, try Cassis Blanc or Rivesaltes. This light, bubbly wine pairs well with seafood and fish dishes.
TAKEAWAY
This isn't a wine region, but you definitely can take some away with you.
There is a lot to love about French wine, but the sheer diversity and breadth of options can be overwhelming. If you want to try something new but aren't sure where to start, the wines above are great choices.
They represent exciting styles that you don't see every day, and they come from some of France's most diverse and interesting regions. So, pour yourself a glass of your favorite white or red and discover the taste of France!
Or better yet, go visit these regions and taste for yourself. A river cruise or a land tour would be the best to include these famous regions of France and their delicious wine offerings.
Give me a call, or schedule and appointment today to start planning!
Bon voyage,
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