Though not the largest wine producing country in the world, France produces more fine wine than any other country. It is doubtful if there is a wine consumer in the world who has not enjoyed good French wine at some stage of their lives.From the sublime Clarets of the top Bordeaux Chateaux, through the stunning Pinots of the Burgundy Domaines to the big chewy Southern Rhônes, France has it all. There is a French wine for every taste and pocket.
Click on a region
France has pioneered the term 'terroir' encompassing the soil and topography of the regions to give French wines their unique difference, this added complexity and richness, which is found in so many of her quality wines. AC wines account for over 40 per cent of all wine produced in France with Vins de Pays accounting for a further 20 per cent.Over 100 grape varieties are planted and used in wine production of which two thirds are red. French wine regulations are amongst the strictest in the world and wines can be declassified or sent for distillation if they fail to meet the strict criteria laid down.
France enjoys a variety of climates from the hot Mediterranean in the South to the cool, more continental climate of Champagne - the most northerly wine producing region and the French have long since mastered the art of matching the grape to the climate and the soil.
