Explore French Wine
From the sun-drenched vineyards in Bordeaux to the misty hillsides of Burgundy, France is an absolute treasure trove of terroir-driven wines that captivate wine drinkers right across the world, and rightly so.
France has a rich tapestry o grape varietals, appellations and winemaking styles offering an array of delights for wine lovers.
Wine regions of France
What are the main wine regions of France?
France is divided into several major wine regions, each known for their own exceptional character and quality. Bordeaux, which is one of the most popular wine regions is known for its red blends and sweet white wines. Burgundy is another celebrated region of France known for its elegant Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Champagne is the stand out for France. France is famous for its production of Champagne which is actually produced in the Champagne region of France. Then you have the Loire Valley, highly known for white, red and sparkling drops. These are just a few of the regions of the highly recognised wine growing areas in France.
What makes French wine so special?
Known worldwide for exceptional quality, diversity and sense of place. French wines boast in rich winemaking traditions that dates back centuries. The regions within France each provide unique wines that reflect the unique climate, soil and winemaking practises. From the prestigious Bordeaux blends to elegant Pinot Noirs from Burgundy and dare we forget to mention the sparkling wines filled of magic from Champagne.
How does the French terroir influence winemaking?
France's Terroir places a fundamental role in the shaping of character and quality of wines produced in several regions across France. Winemakers carefully consider the terroirs characteristics when selecting vineyard sites as well as when cultivating grape varietals. Their attention to terroir is reflected in each bottle with the characters of sense of place, flavours, aromas and combination of natural elements.
What makes France have such unique wine making regions?
Bordeaux:
Bordeaux is known for its prestigious red blends usually from the cab sav, merlot and cabernet franc grapes. The region's maritime climate wit a mix of gravelly soils creates optimal conditions for producing age-worthy wines that are filled with complex flavours. This region also shines bright with the sweet wine varietals from Sauternes and dry wines from Graves.
Burgundy:
Burgundy is known for its terroir driven wines but in particular the Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grape. Fragmented plots also known as 'climats' and diverse soil results in wines that express the nuances of their individual terroirs.
Champagne:
Synonymous with celebration and luxury which France do well. France's region of Champagne produces the world's most famous sparkling wines! The region's cool climate, chalky soils and traditional methods contribute to the deliciously unique and fresh character of Champagne, fine bubbles and crisp acidity.
French Champagne
Among France's many treasures, Champagne stands as one of the most celebrated and elegant drop of them all. Synonymous with luxury and refinement, produced exclusively in the Champagne region o north eastern France.
This iconic sparkling wine is crafted using the traditional methods, which is when secondary fermentation occurs in the bottle which create its signature effervesce and complex flavours.
Delicate and fine bubbles with bright acidity its the signature type of Champagne produced here, the epitome of festivity and celebrations and known for toasting to special moments for.
Champagne is enjoyed often as an aperitif or paired with several gourmet delicacies like caviar and oyster's (yum!).
French food & wine matches
French wines are synonymous with luxury! Incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide range of cuisines due to their wines balance, acidity and complexity, check out our favourite pairings below.
Bordeaux reds: classic match for grilled meats and hearty strews
Burgundy Pinot Noir: Shines bright alongside boeuf bourguignon.
Champagne: When celebrations call so should the special appetizers like oysters and cheese!
Loire Valley: Whites such as Muscadet or Sancerre are perfect with seafood dishes and fresh salads.
