FRENCH WINE

French wine is loved worldwide for its remarkable variety and quality. And it’s little wonder when you consider the diversity of the country’s regions, the range of over 200 grape varieties and the expertise of its winemakers. France’s coveted wine regions, such as Bordeaux, Burgundy and Champagne, are celebrated as some of the greatest in the world, making wines that have become the benchmarks for their respective styles.

Every bottle reflects its unique region, from the elegance of its reds and the freshness of its whites to the celebratory fizz of its sparkling wines. Given this illustrious wine heritage, it’s no wonder France is as much a nation of wine enthusiasts as it is of winemakers.

France is home to many of the world’s most famous wine regions. These regions have helped to set global standards for grape varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. These include:

• Bordeaux – Famous for its beautiful chateaux and premium red blends, Bordeaux excels in producing Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc wines. Known for their depth, structure and suitability for ageing, Bordeaux wines, particularly from Margaux, Pauillac and Saint-Émilion, are highly sought after.
• Burgundy – Often regarded as the homeland of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Burgundy wines are famous for their balance of strength and elegance. The key sub-regions of this area, such as Côte d’Or, Chablis and Beaujolais, add a unique edge to the Burgundian wine character.
• Champagne – Located in northeastern France, Champagne is globally recognised for its sophisticated sparkling wines, primarily made from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. The region offers many styles, from dry Brut to slightly sweeter Demi-Sec.
• Rhône Valley – This Rhône River valley is renowned for its Syrah-led reds in the north, and Grenache blends in the south. The outstanding sub-regions of Côte-Rôtie, Hermitage and Châteauneuf-du-Pape each contribute to the region’s reputation.
• Loire Valley – Renowned for its white wines, it is a key producer of Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc and Melon de Bourgogne. Wines from this region, such as Sancerre, Pouilly-Fumé, Vouvray and Muscadet, are notable for their crisp, high-acidity profile.