France
France and wine are inextricably linked. No other country produces such a wide array of different wine styles, so deeply bedded into the history and culture of its regions.
France's variety of growing conditions couldn't be better suited to wine. Mediterranean, Atlantic, Alpine, river and continental influences all come into play, helping an amazing array of grape varieties to thrive.
French wine has also benefited from being organised into strict appellations, limiting certain grapes to specific regions.
Formed in the 1920s, the appellation contrôlée system might now appear rigid and restricting, especially when compared to today's free planting and experimentation as practiced in the New World. However, it has set down a series of classic wine styles that are admired (and emulated) the world over.
You can watch Tony Laithwaite talking about France below.
In this video, Tony Laithwaite talks about France's phenomenal range of wines, from established classics to lesser-known appellations worth exploring.
Popular Grapes
Chardonnay, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Pinot Noir
Famous Producers
Latour, Lafite-Rothschild, Mouton-Rothschild, Michel Chapoutier
Principal Regions
Alsace, Champagne, Bordeaux, Burgundy, Loire, Rhône, Languedoc
Climate
Maritime, continental
- Wine has been made in south of France since the 6th century BC - the first vines were planted by Greek voyagers.
- France has more of the precious limestone bedrock - so desirable for vine cultivation - than any other country.
- France makes more wine than any other country and has a total vineyard area second only to that of Spain.
- The world's 10 most expensive wines are all French.
