France is the birthplace for such beautiful wines and sweeping vineyards and ages-long traditions, for any wine enthusiast, which will always be the stuff of dreams. From world-renowned Bordeaux region to stunning Champagne houses, each sip holds stories of art and terroir. Either the connoisseur or newly minted drinkers can benefit as they visit the best wineries across the country for them to taste the very essence of French wine.
The Heart of French Wine
Bordeaux is is generally divided into the Left and Right Banks, and both sides are characterized by distinct wine styles. The Left Bank has the Médoc region and its classic appellations, such as Margaux and Pauillac, which produce full-bodied, tannic reds largely based on Cabernet Sauvignon; while the Right Bank boasts Saint-Émilion and Pomerol, whose elegant fruit-dominated wines are built around Merlot.
For one of the best ways in discovering Bordeaux wines by wine tastings tours Bordeaux experience is where it’s at. With a sojourn on one of Bordeaux’s more prestigious wine estates–Château Margaux-guests gain the chance of tasting fine wines of Grand Cru while learning on the estate rich history. As for Château Pétrus in Pomerol although on the higher end, can boast of many of the worlds most coveted Merlot wines.
For those interested in exploring Bordeaux beyond the châteaux, the city of Bordeaux provides exciting walking tours around the old city. This walk will introduce you with wine bars and other hidden gems that offer tastings to be remembered.
Burgundy: Land of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay
If Bordeaux is King, then Burgundy is a very sophisticated Queen. Known for their opulent Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, it is here, above all other regions, where terroir truly matters. Vineyards are divided into little patches, each one producing characteristic expression wines.
The best way to explore Burgundy is by driving along the Route des Grands Crus, with stops at various wineries to taste, while passing through various quaint little villages along the way. Champagne is the sparkling jewel of France.
No one ever travels to France without visiting the magical land of Champagne. This region, easily accessible from Paris and within a short train ride, is home to the world’s finest sparkling wines.
Visits to grand maisons such as Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Dom Pérignon reveal the delicate process of the méthode champenoise, while smaller family-owned producers such as Billecart-Salmon and Jacques Selosse offer intimate and homey experiences.
The best time to visit Champagne is during the harvest in September when the whole region buzzes with activity and a plethora of events happens.
Alsace, a Hidden Paradise for White Wine Lovers.
Alsace has been a little paradise for connoisseurs of aromatic whites. The distinctive Franco-German influence is manifested in the specific wine styles it produces, as Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris are the masters.
Among the great places to go for a wine visit is Domaine Zind-Humbrecht, offering biodynamic wines perfectly narrating Alsace’s different terroirs. Domaine Weinbach is another jewel that offers guests beautiful gardens and incredible tastings within its estate.
Experience this region in the most magical way by taking the Alsace Wine Route through storybook villages and vineyards.
The Rhône Valley: A Tapestry of Flavors
From Lyon to Avignon, the Rhône Valley has such a great variety of wines. They range from the strong, bold Syrah-based wines of the north to rich Grenache blends of the south.
For those who like structured, spicy Syrah wines, a visit to E. Guigal in Côte-Rôtie is a must. Further south, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is the home of the iconic estates of Château de Beaucastel, where Grenache takes center stage.
Whether it is wine tasting in Bordeaux or sipping Syrah in the Rhône, France’s wineries offer an endless adventure for wine lovers. Unique and immersive walking tours provided by Tours in Bordeaux can help deepen visitors’ appreciation of French wine culture while exploring one of its most iconic cities.
