From around the world

France

The reference point for almost every style of wine made today.

Wine history

Vines arrived with Greek traders at Massalia around 600 BCE and spread under Rome. Medieval monasteries in Burgundy mapped the vineyards parcel by parcel, and in 1935 France codified those centuries of observation into the Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée system that the rest of the world has since imitated.

Major Wine Regions

Bordeaux
Burgundy
Champagne
Rhône Valley
Loire Valley
Alsace
Provence

Important Grape Varieties

Cabernet Sauvignon
Merlot
Pinot Noir
Chardonnay
Syrah
Sauvignon Blanc
Chenin Blanc
Grenache

Major Wine Styles

Structured Bordeaux blends
Terroir-driven Burgundy
Traditional-method Champagne
Pale dry Provence rosé
Botrytised Sauternes

Food Pairings

Coq au vin
Beef bourguignon
Oysters
Comté
Duck confit

Notable wines

Château Margaux
Domaine de la Romanée-Conti La Tâche
Château d'Yquem
E. Guigal Côte-Rôtie La Mouline
Krug Grande Cuvée

Recognisable brands

Château Margaux
Moët & Chandon
Louis Jadot
Château Ste. Michelle's partner Trimbach
Veuve Clicquot