Wine lovers will agree that there’s room for all types of wines from all over the world. But there’s something about French wine that appeals to even the most discerning palates. With so many of the world’s favourite varietals originating in France, it’s no wonder that French wine is some of the most popular and sought-after around the world.
That’s why, in honour of Drink Wine Day, celebrated annually on 18 February, Expat Explore has compiled the ultimate guide to wine regions in France and what varietals to enjoy where. If you want to learn all about the history, character and uniqueness of French wine, our guide to the top French wine regions and wines is for you!
Related: If you’re interested in more global wines, discover the world’s best winemaking regions.
Our A-Z guide to the wine regions of France:
Alsace
Alsace is located in the northeast of France, bordered by Germany and Switzerland. These influences are reflected in the region’s culture, but most prominently in its wines. The region is nestled in the Rhine River plain. So, the Germanic traditions of winemaking can be seen in the popular varietals of Riesling, Sylvaner, Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer.
Visitors to the region are encouraged to explore the Alsace wine route. It’s one of the most historic and picturesque in the country. Here, the wines tend to be more affordable than most other French labels.
Related: Here’s what to expect from a Rhine Valley tasting experience.
Beaujolais
Located just south of Burgundy, another famed French wine region we’ll get to on our list, Beaujolais is a large wine-producing region known for its namesake varietal made from Gamay grapes. This light red wine is low in tannins with fruity aromas and fresh notes that bring to mind the Beaujolais forest.
Be sure to sip some Beaujolais wine from the world-famous vineyards in the region! The Nizerand River that fertilises the Beaujolais soil is key to the wine’s distinct flavour.
Bordeaux
The Bordeaux region produces some of the most exclusive and sought-after wines in France and the world! Thanks to its prime location on the Atlantic coast and the favourable climate, wines from this region are world-renowned for their premium quality and harmonious balance.
The region’s most popular wine varietals include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc but grapes like Malbec and Petit Verdot are also sometimes used.
Burgundy
Burgundy holds a rich legacy as one of France’s best and most-loved wine regions. This 100-mile stretch of wineland can be traced back to medieval times, and the Chardonnay and Pinot Noir they planted back then are still the top varietals from the region to this day.
The fine wines from this region are a must-try but be prepared for the price. As these are some of the most prestigious in the world, Burgundy wines are also some of the most expensive.
Related: Experience the Burgundy region on our European Vistas tour!
Champagne
The Champagne region of France is arguably the best-known winemaking region in the world thanks to its eponymous sparkling wine varietal that’s synonymous with France and celebration. Pop a bottle of Champagne from this region and you’ll understand why it’s only called that if it’s made here.
Thanks to the laborious techniques from the 1600s that still live on today, winemakers were able to remedy their ripening struggles by fermenting the grape juice twice in the bottle to make sparkling wine. These techniques are what give Champagne its signature taste. Whether using Chardonnay, Pinot Noir or Pinot Meunier grapes, the taste of Champagne is undeniable!
Related: Taste Champagne in Champagne when you embark on our Best of Western Europe tour!
Corsica
While Corsica is technically a Mediterranean island under French rule, its proximity to Tuscany is what gives its wines their delicious complexity. In this unique winemaking region, you’ll find Pinot Noir, Tempranillo, and Barbarossa vineyards all lined up. This diversity is what makes the region a must-visit and the wines a must-taste!
Wines in the region range from elegant, coastal whites to refined, full-bodied reds. So, the Corsica region has wines for any taste and any palate, as long as you appreciate excellent wines!
Languedoc-Roussillon
Responsible for a third of the country’s wine output, Languedoc-Roussillon is an underrated yet unmissable French winemaking region. Comprising two regions on the Mediterranean coast, Languedoc and Roussillon, this area is famous for its red wine and rosé.
The area was once known for mass-produced value wines. But it has recently undergone a transformation that has cemented it as a key player in the French winemaking world.
Loire Valley
The Loire Valley is one of France’s most picturesque winemaking regions with vineyards accented by a captivating castle here and there. Thanks to its cooler climate, the region is perfect for lighter and sweeter white and sparkling wines.
Some of the region’s most popular white wine varietals include Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadet. But Cabernet Franc and Gamay grapes are also top choices for easy-drinking reds and the occasional fruity rosé.
Provence
Provence is as pretty as a picture, and its rosé is just as beautiful to experience! As the oldest winemaking region in France and the only one dedicated to producing rosé, it’s no wonder why the blush wines from Provence are famous around the world.
Its location on the Mediterranean coast yields the perfect climate for top varietals. Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Cinsault, and Mourvèdre can all thrive in these conditions. Give the delightfully crisp and fruity rosé from Provence a try next time you’re in France!
Rhône Valley
Home to the Rhône River and a wide array of grape varieties, the Rhône Valley winemaking region has two distinct styles. In the North, the focus falls on single-varietal Syrah production. In the South, the reds and rosé usually feature a blend of many varietals.
Some of the popular varietals include Viognier, Syrah, and Grenache, producing Mediterranean blends that are famous around the world.
If you’d like to explore the iconic wines in France for yourself, many of our Europe multi-country tours feature the must-visit home of Champagne, Pinot Noir, Merlot and more!
Book a tour with Expat Explore, and discover the many reasons to fall in love with France! Say “bonjour” to the very best wines in the world while you tick the top French attractions off your bucket list.