French wines are renowned worldwide.The distinctive flavors, styles and traditions are the hallmarks of the diverse wine regions of France.

The wine regions of France

Unlike many wine regions in the New World – for example, those in California, Australia and Chile – where the weather is more predictable, in France the quality of the various vintages will vary a great deal.

The differences in climate, terroir and geographical features are what give individual character and identity to the wine regions of France.

Here are seven of them.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux, in the southwest, is one of the wine regions of France known for its rich history, diverse terroir and exceptional wines. The region’s unique combination of climate, geography and human expertise has produced wines that are as varied as they are exquisite. Its reputation as one of the world’s most prestigious wine regions is well established.

The history of Bordeaux wines goes back to Roman times, when the first vineyards were planted. Through the centuries, Bordeaux has survived serious challenges: the rise and fall of empires, wars and economic crises have left their mark on the area’s wine production.

The region enjoys a temperate maritime climate, characterised by warm summers and mild winters. This, and the region’s diverse soil types, create an ideal environment for growing a range of grape varieties. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot are used to make Bordeaux’ red wines; Bordeaux whites are made from Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle.

In Bordeaux, the wine production process is a blend of tradition and innovation. The region is known for its château system, where each vineyard is a self-contained entity responsible for growing grapes and producing wine. This system allows for a high degree of control over the entire process, from vine to bottle.

Bordeaux’ classification system says more about tradition than reality. In 1855, the wines of 87 chateaux were accorded a cru status. Sixty red wines enjoyed this status, with just four accorded ‘first growth’, 15 second growth, 14 third, 10 fourth, and 18 fifth. The only amendment in nearly 170 years was in 1973, when Chateau Mouton Rothschild was elevated from second to first growth.

The five Premier Crus are Château Haut-Brion, Château Lafite-Rothschild, Château Latour, Château Margaux and Château Mouton Rothschild.

Are Bordeaux’s first growth wines the best of the region? Well, it’s fair to say they are among the best and, of course, the priciest. Many prefer to look at the lower classifications, where high quality comes with a lower price tag.

NB: Graves and St. Emilion, areas in Bordeaux, also have their own classifications.

Sauternes is the famous sweet white wine that comes from Bordeaux. Excellent examples are the first growth (white) Chateau d’Yquem and the second growth Chateau Doisy Vedrines.

Burgundy

Burgundy (Bourgogne), in the eastern part of the country, is one of the most highly respected wine regions of France. Its unique terroir, meticulous vineyard management and traditional winemaking techniques go toward the production of some of the world’s most sought-after wines.

Burgundy’s wine production is an art form that has been perfected over centuries. The region is divided into four main areas: Chablis, Côte d’Or (which is further divided into Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune), Côte Chalonnaise and Mâconnais. Each area has its unique characteristics and produces distinct wines.

Immediately to the south is Beaujolais, which is part of Burgundy. Or not. Some say yes, some say no. That’s geographically speaking. Wine-wise, they are poles apart. We’ll deal with Beaujolais in a separate post.

Burgundy wines are known for their complexity and depth of flavour. The region’s Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes produce wines with a wide range of flavours, from light and fruity to rich and full-bodied.

Burgundy wines are classified by a different method from those of Bordeaux, where the status is accorded to the chateaux. In Burgundy, a particular vineyard is anointed Grand Cru or Premier Cru. This vineyard might be owned by one Burgundy house or by many. Clos Vougeot, for instance, which spans 51 ha (125 acres) is the biggest of Burgundy’s Grand Cru vineyards and has nearly 80 owners, each of whom has ownership of particular rows of vines.

As anyone who has stepped into a vineyard will know, not all rows are created equal. Some might be on a slope that drains well and captures plenty of sunlight, while others might be in shadow or a soggy ditch at the bottom of the slope. Every wine that comes from a Grand Cru vineyard can be labelled Grand Cru. So it pays to ask about the relative qualities of the end product. Wine retailers should be able to tell you which producers traditionally make the best in each appellation.

Below the Grand Crus vineyards, of which there are 33, and Premier Crus, which number 640, there are so-called ‘village wines’, which are sourced from particular commune areas. There are also ‘regional wines’, which could come from anywhere in Burgundy.

Champagne

In the northeast, Champagne is one of the wine regions of France globally renowned for the production of one particular variety: the eponymous sparkling white wine, Champagne. This is the only place in the world where authentic Champagne is produced, making it a unique and treasured part of France’s viticultural heritage.

The Champagne wine region is divided into four main growing areas: Montagne de Reims, Vallée de la Marne, Côte des Blancs and Côte des Bar. Each of these areas has a distinct terroir that contributes to the unique characteristics of Champagne. The region’s chalky soil, cool climate and meticulous viticulture practices create the perfect conditions for growing the three main Champagne grape varieties: Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay.

The Champagne process, or Méthode Champenoise, is a complex and labour-intensive process that involves two fermentations, as well as aging on lees, riddling, disgorging and dosage. This process contributes to the effervescence, complexity and unique taste of Champagne.

If you go to Epernay or Reims you can visit any number of champagne houses. Take a tasting tour. You won’t be disappointed.

Rhône Valley

The Rhone Valley’s history as a wine making area dates back to the Roman era, making it one of the oldest wine regions of France. The region’s viticultural potential was recognised by the Romans, who cultivated vines and produced wines that were highly appreciated throughout the Empire

The Rhône Valley, divided into northern and southern regions, offers a diverse range of wines. In the northern Rhône, Syrah and Viognier dominate the vineyards and produce bold, aromatic reds and whites. The southern Rhône, on the other hand, is known for its Grenache-based blends, which are rich and full-bodied and often exhibit spicy notes. The appellation Châteauneuf-du-Pape (which can contain up to 22 different grape varieties) is particularly renowned for its powerful and complex wines.

The Rhone Valley is a treasure trove for wine lovers. You’ll find a diverse range of wines that reflect the region’s rich history, unique terroir and winemaking expertise. Whether you prefer a robust Syrah, an aromatic Viognier or complex Grenache blends, the Rhone Valley has something for your palate.

Alsace

Alsace is in northeastern France. The region’s geographical location and climatic conditions contribute to the production of some of the world’s most distinctive and aromatic wines.

Alsace wines are primarily white wines –dry, off-dry, sweet and sparkling – and are known for their aromatic intensity and precision. There are several grape varieties in the region’s diverse wine portfolio. The primary grapes are Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris and Muscat, which are used to produce varietal wines. Riesling, with its high acidity and aromatic complexity, is considered the ‘king’ of Alsace grapes. Gewürztraminer, on the other hand, is known for its intense aromatics and rich, spicy flavours. Pinot Gris offers a balance between acidity and sweetness and Muscat is known for its floral and fruity characteristics.

The dry wines, particularly those made from Riesling, are renowned for their minerality and high acidity. Off-dry wines, often made from Gewürztraminer or Pinot Gris, balance sweetness with acidity. Sweet wines, known as Vendanges Tardives and Sélection de Grains Nobles, are made from overripe and botrytised grapes, respectively. Crémant d’Alsace, the region’s sparkling wine, is made using the traditional method and can be produced from a variety of grapes.

Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is one of the world’s most well-known wine regions of France. It is renowned for its diverse range of wines, from dry and sweet whites to full-bodied reds and sparkling wines.

The Valley stretches along the Loire River from the Atlantic coast to the centre of France. Its climate varies from maritime in the west to more continental as you move inland. This diversity of climate and soil types contributes to the wide variety of wines produced in the region.

Chenin Blanc is used to produce a range of styles, from dry (like Savennières and Vouvray) to sweet dessert wines (like Coteaux du Layon), and even sparkling wines (like Crémant de Loire).

Sauvignon Blanc is used to produce crisp, dry wines, most notably in the regions of Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé.

The region also produces red wines, primarily from Cabernet Franc, found in appellations like Chinon and Bourgueil.

The Loire Valley has several appellations, each with its own regulations and characteristics. Some of the most famous are Sancerre, Pouilly-Fumé, Vouvray, Chinon and Muscadet. Each of these appellations is known for a specific type of wine or grape variety.

Loire Valley wines are often characterised by their high acidity and fresh, fruity flavours. They are typically not heavily oaked, which allows the pure, varietal character of the grapes to shine through. The region’s sparkling wines are also highly regarded, often offering a more affordable alternative to Champagne.

Given the diversity of wines from the Loire Valley, they can be paired with a wide range of foods. The crisp, dry whites like Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé pair well with goat cheese, seafood and chicken; the fuller-bodied reds from Chinon and Bourgueil can stand up to red meat and game. The sweet wines from the region are excellent with desserts or foie gras.

Provence

Provence, located in the southeastern part of France, is renowned for its scenic beauty and rich culture. Of all the wine regions of France, it is known best, by wine connoisseurs and amateurs, for its rosé, which accounts for nearly 90% of its wine production. The region also produces exceptional red and white wines that are gaining recognition worldwide.

As the oldest of the wine regions of France, Provence has a wine history dating back over 2,600 years, when the ancient Greeks first planted vineyards in the area.

Provence’s diverse range of grape varieties contribute to the unique character of the region’s wines. The primary grapes used in the production of Provence rosé are Grenache, Cinsault and Mourvèdre, often blended with other varieties such as Syrah, Carignan and Cabernet Sauvignon. For white wines, Rolle (also known as Vermentino) is the most common variety; red wines are typically made from a blend of several grape varieties.

The region of Provence is divided into nine appellations, each with its unique terroir and wine style. The largest and most well-known appellation is Côtes de Provence, which produces a wide range of wine styles, including the famous rosé. Other notable appellations are Bandol, known for its robust red wines, and Cassis, celebrated for its aromatic white wines.

Provence offers you endless wine-tasting experiences, from intimate tastings at family-owned vineyards to guided tours of prestigious wine estates. The region’s sunny climate, stunning landscapes and rich history make the perfect backdrop as you explore and savour the flavours of Provence.

Whether you’re a novice wine enthusiast or a seasoned connoisseur, a wine tasting tour in Provence is a must-do experience. It’s an opportunity to learn about the winemaking process, discover the nuances of different grape varieties and, of course, taste some of the finest wines in the world in one of the most beautiful wine regions in France.

Taste all the wine regions of France

Visit all seven of these wine regions of France – or even just one or two. One thing is certain; you won’t be disappointed in the wines.

C’est magnifique! Just pour, examine, smell, taste, drink. A votre santé.

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