Are you a wine lover planning your next trip to France? Are you unsure which wine region you should choose to visit? If so, you’re in the right place. Continue reading to discover more about the best wine regions in France.
France stands as a beacon for wine enthusiasts, offering an unparalleled tapestry of vineyards and wine-producing regions. Each region brings its unique flavor, history, and wine-making traditions to the table, making France a must-visit for anyone with a passion for viticulture and enology.
This guide will navigate you through the most celebrated wine regions of France, promising an enriching journey from the rolling hills of Bordeaux to the sun-drenched landscapes of Provence.
Looking to visit one of these wine regions? Check our complete catalog of wine tours and tastings in France.
Bordeaux
Bordeaux is synonymous with wine excellence, known worldwide for its prestigious vineyards and age-worthy wines. This region is a patchwork of vineyards that stretch from the Atlantic coast to the inland areas, producing a wide array of wines from red and white to sweet and dry. The Left Bank is famed for its Cabernet Sauvignon, while the Right Bank is revered for its Merlot.
With so much wine history, it makes sense that you’re spoiled for choice when looking for wine tours and tastings in Bordeaux. Whether you plan to stay in the city or venture out to a vineyard in one of its sub-regions, you’re sure to find a wine tasting experience to please your palate.
Hot tip: You can also check out 63 Fun Things to Do in Bordeaux for more inspiration on where to go and what to see and do while visiting Bordeaux.
Notable Subregions and Grape Varieties
Saint-Émilion
Saint-Émilion is a jewel of viticulture and history, renowned not just for its exceptional wines but also for its breathtaking medieval architecture. This picturesque town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a compelling blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and world-class vineyards.
The wines of Saint-Émilion are as remarkable as the town itself, primarily produced from Merlot and Cabernet Franc, leading to velvety, complex reds that are highly sought after worldwide. The region is distinguished by its diverse terroir, which contributes to the wide range of wine styles it produces, from the powerful and opulent to the refined and elegant.
Médoc
Stretching northwards from the city of Bordeaux along the left bank of the Gironde estuary, the Médoc is a geographical marvel characterized by its rich, gravelly soil and ideal winemaking climate, factors that contribute significantly to the quality of the wine produced.
This area is divided into two key sections: Haut-Médoc to the south and the northern part simply referred to as Médoc. The region is home to four of Bordeaux’s five first-growth wines (Premiers Crus), according to the famous 1855 Bordeaux Wine Official Classification, making it a cornerstone of the Bordeaux wine industry.
Graves
Situated immediately south of the city of Bordeaux along the left bank of the Garonne River, Graves is celebrated for its remarkable contribution to the Bordeaux wine legacy, producing an esteemed array of both red and white wines. Its name, “Graves,” is derived from its characteristic gravelly soil, which imparts a distinctive minerality and complexity to the wines.
Within the Graves region, two appellations stand out for their exceptional wines: Pessac-Léognan and Sauternes.
Pessac-Léognan is renowned for both its structured, elegant reds and its complex, aromatic whites, which rank among the best in Bordeaux. The area is home to the prestigious Château Haut-Brion, one of the original five First Growth wines classified in 1855.
Further south, the Sauternes appellation produces exquisite sweet wines, with Château d’Yquem leading as a benchmark for quality. These luscious, golden wines are made from grapes affected by noble rot (Botrytis cinerea), which concentrates their sugar content, resulting in wines of extraordinary depth, sweetness, and longevity.
Pomerol
Renowned for producing some of the most sought-after and exquisite red wines globally, Pomerol distinguishes itself with its small scale and the dominance of the Merlot grape, which thrives in the region’s unique terroir. This terroir, characterized by a rich mix of clay, gravel, and sand, imparts a lush, velvety texture and profound complexity to the wines, setting them apart from those of neighboring appellations.
Among the jewels of Pomerol is the celebrated Château Pétrus, a wine estate that has achieved almost mythical status for its outstanding Merlot-based wines, commanding some of the highest prices in the international wine market.
Most Famous Châteaux
- Château Margaux – A premier cru estate renowned for its perfumed and elegant wines.
- Château Latour – Known for its potent, long-lived wines.
- Château Lafite Rothschild – Famous for its refined, luxurious wines.
- Château Haut-Brion – The only First Growth in Pessac-Léognan, noted for its richly flavored wines.
- Château Pétrus – A Pomerol estate producing one of the world’s most sought-after Merlot wines.
Visiting the Bordeaux Wine Region
Both Médoc and Saint-Émilion are easily reachable by car from the Bordeaux city center. The Médoc region is 50 to 80 kilometers (30 to 50 miles) northwest of Bordeaux and takes about one to one-and-a-half hours to get there by car. Saint-Émilion is 40 kilometers (25 miles) east of Bordeaux and is about a 45-minute drive.
If you plan to venture out to Médoc or Saint-Émilion, you can choose a half-day tour starting from €75 or a full-day tour for around €150. You can also cycle on an e-bike from vineyard to vineyard for as low as €174. Whether on foot or two wheels, there are plenty of wine tours and tastings in Bordeaux waiting for you.
Wine Museums
La Cité du Vin
Opened in 2016, La Cité du Vin is designed to evoke the image of a swirling glass of wine (or maybe a decanter?). Its striking architecture has become an iconic symbol of Bordeaux’s modern connection to its wine-making heritage. This avant-garde facility offers an immersive experience through its permanent and temporary exhibitions, showcasing the history, tradition, and culture of wine.
The wine museum includes a panoramic restaurant on the seventh floor, providing stunning views of Bordeaux and the Garonne River, where you can savor dishes paired with a selection of wines from around the world. At the Belvedere, the museum’s viewing gallery, you can enjoy a complimentary glass of wine while admiring the city’s landscape.
Wine and Trade Museum
The Wine and Trade Museum in Bordeaux, located in the historic Chartrons district, offers a deep dive into the city’s rich mercantile history and its legendary connection to the wine industry. Housed in a former trader’s house dating back to the 18th century, the museum captures the essence of Bordeaux’s golden age of wine commerce.
What sets the Wine and Trade Museum apart is its focus on the nitty-gritty of the wine business, offering insights into the roles of brokers, barrel makers, and merchants in the development of Bordeaux as a wine capital.
The museum also organizes guided tours and tastings, allowing you to not only learn about the historical aspects of the wine trade but to also experience the rich flavors that have made Bordeaux wines world-renowned.
Champagne
The Champagne region, home to the world’s most celebrated sparkling wine, is located in the northeast of France. Its unique chalky soil and cool climate contribute to the distinctiveness of Champagne wine. This region exclusively produces sparkling wines using a method known as the traditional method or méthode champenoise.
Notable Subregions and Grape Varieties
Montagne de Reims
Montagne de Reims is known for Pinot Noir, which thrives in this area due to the chalky soil and favorable climate conditions. Pinot Noir contributes body, structure, and complexity to the champagne, along with aromatic notes of red fruits. Some villages in the Montagne de Reims, however, also cultivate Chardonnay, adding versatility to the region’s grape portfolio.
Vallée de la Marne
Vallée de la Marne is predominantly known for Pinot Meunier, a grape variety particularly well-suited to the cooler, more variable climate of this area. Pinot Meunier lends champagne fruitiness, freshness, and a certain roundness, making it an essential component in many blends. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are also grown here, contributing complexity and elegance to the champagnes.
Côte des Blancs
Côte des Blancs is renowned for its Chardonnay, which finds its purest expression in the chalky soils of this subregion. Chardonnay from the Côte des Blancs is prized for its finesse, acidity, and floral, citrus, and mineral notes, contributing elegance and vivacity to the champagne blends. This area is crucial for producing Blanc de Blancs champagnes, made exclusively from Chardonnay.
Most Famous Châteaux
- Moët & Chandon – Perhaps the most famous Champagne house, known for its rich history and expansive cellars.
- Veuve Clicquot – Celebrated for its full-bodied and structured Champagne.
- Bollinger – Known for its robust, complex Champagnes.
- Louis Roederer – Producer of the prestigious Cristal Champagne.
- Taittinger – Recognized for its finely balanced Champagnes.
Visiting the Champagne Wine Region
The distance from Paris to the heart of the Champagne region, such as Reims, is approximately 144 kilometers (about 90 miles), making it an accessible destination for a day trip or weekend getaway by car or train. The journey by train, particularly from Paris Gare de l’Est to Reims, can take as little as 45 minutes on the high-speed TGV.
There are a wide range of day trips to Champagne from Paris to choose from. You can find Champagne tours for as low as €185. However, most tours range from €250 to €350 while the most exclusive Champagne day trips are priced at €500 and above per person.
Burgundy (Bourgogne)
Burgundy is a complex mosaic of vineyards known for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The region’s “climats,” small vineyard parcels with their own microclimate and soil, are central to understanding Burgundy’s wine diversity. From the powerful reds of the Côte de Nuits to the celebrated whites of the Côte de Beaune, Burgundy offers a profound sense of place.
Notable Subregions and Grape Varieties
Côte de Nuits
Located in the northern part of the Côte d’Or, the Côte de Nuits is best known for producing some of the world’s finest red wines, primarily from the Pinot Noir grape. This region is famed for its complex, aromatic, and deeply flavored Pinot Noir wines, which are capable of aging gracefully for decades.
The Côte de Nuits houses many of the most famous Grand Cru vineyards, such as Romanée-Conti and Chambertin, where Pinot Noir reaches its highest expression.
Côte de Beaune
The Côte de Beaune, situated to the south of the Côte de Nuits, is versatile in its wine production, making both exquisite reds and some of the most acclaimed whites in Burgundy. While Pinot Noir is still significant here for red wines, the Côte de Beaune is more renowned for its exceptional Chardonnay wines, producing rich, full-bodied, and complex whites.
Notable appellations include Meursault, Puligny-Montrachet, and Chassagne-Montrachet, where Chardonnay demonstrates a remarkable depth and minerality unique to this terroir.
Chablis
Chablis, located in the northernmost wine district of Burgundy, is famous for its vibrant, crisp, and mineral-driven white wines, made almost exclusively from Chardonnay. The unique Kimmeridgian limestone soil, rich in marine fossils, imparts a distinctively flinty or steely minerality to the wines, setting them apart from other Chardonnay-based wines globally.
Chablis wines range from the lean and highly acidic Petit Chablis to the more complex and structured Grand Cru Chablis, all showcasing the purity and elegance of Chardonnay in a cooler climate.
Most Famous Châteaux
- Domaine de la Romanée-Conti – The epitome of Burgundy excellence, producing the most coveted Pinot Noir.
- Domaine Leroy – Known for its biodynamically farmed vineyards and exquisite wines.
- Domaine Leflaive – A leading producer of biodynamic white Burgundy.
- Maison Louis Jadot – Produces a wide range of wines that express the diversity of Burgundy.
- Domaine Faiveley – One of the largest vineyard owners in Burgundy, known for both its red and white wines.
Visiting the Burgundy Wine Region
The trip to Burgundy from Paris can take from 1 to 3 hours depending on which part you visit. Burgundy’s northern gateway, the city of Dijon, is approximately 300 kilometers (about 190 miles) southeast of Paris. Traveling from Paris to Dijon by car can take around 3 hours via the A6 motorway.
This scenic highway is the perfect backdrop for a day trip to Burgundy from Paris. Wine tasting tours including roundtrip transport to Burgundy from Paris start at €235. If you’re already in Burgundy, you can choose from the many wine tours and tastings in Burgundy where you have the flexibility to visit individual wineries for €15 to €45 or book a guided tour to several vineyards by sidecar for €90, by bike for €210, or by car/minibus starting at €235.
Rhône Valley
The Rhône Valley stretches from Lyon to the Mediterranean Sea, divided into the Northern Rhône, known for its Syrah, and the Southern Rhône, where blends dominate. The Northern Rhône produces some of the most prestigious and age-worthy Syrahs in the world, while the Southern Rhône is celebrated for its Grenache-based blends, such as Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
Notable Subregions and Grape Varieties
Côte-Rôtie
Côte-Rôtie is renowned for producing some of the most elegant and aromatic red wines in the Northern Rhône, primarily from the Syrah grape variety. Syrah from Côte-Rôtie is known for its finesse, complex aromas of black fruits, violets, and sometimes smoked meat or bacon.
A notable feature of Côte-Rôtie is the tradition of co-fermenting Syrah with a small percentage (up to 20%) of Viognier, a white grape variety. Viognier adds a floral aroma and can help to stabilize the color and soften the texture of the wine, making Côte-Rôtie wines uniquely fragrant and smoother.
Hermitage
Hermitage is another prestigious appellation in the Northern Rhône, producing powerful and full-bodied red wines predominantly from Syrah. Hermitage Syrah is known for its deep color, robust tannins, and longevity, often displaying flavors of dark fruits, spices, and earthy notes.
The wines from Hermitage are considered some of the finest expressions of Syrah in the world, capable of aging for several decades. Though red wines dominate, Hermitage also produces a smaller quantity of white wines from Marsanne and Roussanne, known for their richness, complexity, and aging potential.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Châteauneuf-du-Pape, in the Southern Rhône, is famous for its powerful and complex red wines made from a blend of up to 13 grape varieties, though in practice, many producers use fewer. The most important grape varieties in Châteauneuf-du-Pape blends include Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre.
Grenache typically dominates the blend, contributing red fruit flavors, warmth, and alcohol content, while Syrah adds structure, color, and dark fruit notes. Mourvèdre contributes to the wine’s tannin structure and longevity, offering flavors of plum and spice. Châteauneuf-du-Pape also produces white wines, though less commonly, from varieties such as Roussanne, Grenache Blanc, and several others, known for their full body and aromatic complexity.
Most Famous Châteaux
- E. Guigal – Known for producing some of the finest Côte-Rôtie wines.
- Château de Beaucastel – A benchmark for Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
- M. Chapoutier – Esteemed for its biodynamic approach and exceptional Hermitage wines.
- Domaine du Pegau – Renowned for its traditional style Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
- Paul Jaboulet Aîné – Famous for its La Chapelle, a top Hermitage wine.
Visiting the Rhône Valley Wine Region
Avignon is the closest major city to Châteauneuf-du-Pape. At a distance of only 15 to 20 kilometers (about 9 to 12 miles), day trips from Avignon to Châteauneuf-du-Pape are common with a drive of around 20 to 30 minutes.
Wine tasting tours in Châteauneuf-du-Pape range from €85 to €160, depending on how many wineries you visit during the trip. Many tours also include a visit to the scenic villages of Liburon in Provence.
Loire Valley
The Loire Valley is celebrated for its diverse range of wine styles, from the light whites of Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé to the medium-bodied reds of Chinon and Bourgueil. The region benefits from a cool climate that is ideal for Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, and Cabernet Franc.
Notable Subregions and Grape Varieties
Sancerre
Sancerre is renowned for its crisp, aromatic white wines, primarily made from Sauvignon Blanc. This grape variety thrives in Sancerre’s chalky and silex (flint) soils, contributing to the wine’s minerality, high acidity, and vibrant aromas of gooseberries, nettles, and sometimes flint or smoke. While Sancerre is most famous for its white wines, it also produces a smaller quantity of red and rosé wines from Pinot Noir.
Pouilly-Fumé
Like Sancerre, Pouilly-Fumé is located on the eastern side of the Loire River and is also famed for white wines made exclusively from Sauvignon Blanc. The wines of Pouilly-Fumé are known for their characteristic smoky, flinty notes (the term “Fumé” refers to this smokiness), along with vibrant acidity and flavors of lime, green apple, and mineral undertones. The unique flinty soils of the region play a significant role in shaping the wine’s distinctive profile.
Chinon
Chinon is situated in the heart of the Loire Valley and is best known for its red wines made predominantly from Cabernet Franc, with a small amount of Cabernet Sauvignon sometimes blended in. Chinon produces wines that range in style from light and fruity to more structured and age-worthy, characterized by their floral (violet) and red fruit (raspberry, plum) aromas, along with vegetal notes and a distinctive pencil lead minerality on occasion. The region’s sandy, gravelly soils on the floodplains and limestone-clay soils on the hillsides contribute to the variation in style and complexity of Chinon wines.
Bourgueil
Adjacent to Chinon, Bourgueil is another appellation that focuses on red and rosé wines made from Cabernet Franc. The wines of Bourgueil can be lighter and fruitier when sourced from the gravelly soils near the river or more tannic and structured when coming from the vineyards with limestone-clay soils on the higher slopes. These wines typically exhibit flavors of red berries, blackcurrant, and sometimes bell pepper, with an earthy backbone.
Most Famous Châteaux
- Domaine Henri Bourgeois – A leading producer of Sancerre.
- Didier Dagueneau – Known for Pouilly-Fumé of unparalleled complexity.
- Château de Tracy – Produces top-quality Pouilly-Fumé.
- Domaine Huet – The pinnacle of Vouvray, producing age-worthy Chenin Blanc.
- Château de Villeneuve – Known for its elegant Saumur-Champigny (Cabernet Franc).
Visiting the Loire Valley Wine Region
The westernmost part of the Loire Valley, where many of the famous châteaux are located, starts approximately 200 kilometers (about 124 miles) southwest of Paris. For example, the city of Tours, often considered a gateway to the Loire Valley’s wine country, is around 240 kilometers (about 150 miles) from Paris. The journey by car can take around 2 to 2.5 hours, making for the perfect day trip to the Loire Valley from Paris.
The typical wine tasting tour to the Loire Valley will take you to two or three different châteaux to appreciate their castles, vineyards and wines. Group tours start as low as €149 and small group tours start at €235. If you want to extend your trip to two or three days, you can add on visits to Normandy and Mont Saint Michel.
Alsace
Alsace, with its Germanic influence, is renowned for its aromatic white wines, including Riesling, Gewurztraminer, and Pinot Gris. The region benefits from a dry, sunny climate, allowing grapes to ripen fully and produce wines with rich aromatics and complexity.
Notable Subregion and Grape Varieties
The Haut-Rhin, including areas around Colmar, is known for its superior vineyards, producing the most acclaimed Alsace wines.
Riesling
Riesling is considered the king of Alsace grapes, producing wines that are aromatic, high in acidity, and can range from dry to sweet. Riesling from the Haut-Rhin is known for its purity, elegance, and complex flavors, often with notes of citrus, green apple, and characteristic mineral undertones, reflecting the region’s terroir.
Gewurztraminer
Gewurztraminer is a highly aromatic grape variety, producing full-bodied and richly textured wines. The wines typically exhibit pronounced flavors of lychee, roses, passion fruit, and spices. Gewurztraminer from the Haut-Rhin is celebrated for its intensity and depth, along with a potential for sweetness balanced by acidity.
Pinot Gris
Pinot Gris in Alsace, particularly in the Haut-Rhin, produces wines that are fuller-bodied and richer than most other regions’ Pinot Gris. These wines often display a complex array of flavors, including ripe tropical fruits, honey, and smoky notes, with a silky texture and a notable acidity that balances the wine’s richness.
Muscat
Alsace Muscat (mainly Muscat Ottonel and Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains) is distinct from the sweet Muscat wines found elsewhere, offering dry, crisp wines that are highly aromatic, with fresh grape and floral aromas. These wines are vibrant and refreshing, capturing the essence of the Muscat grape.
Pinot Blanc
Pinot Blanc is a versatile grape variety that produces light to medium-bodied wines, characterized by their freshness, straightforward fruit flavors, and soft acidity. In the Haut-Rhin, Pinot Blanc can exhibit a subtle complexity, with notes of white fruits, flowers, and a smooth texture.
Sylvaner
Sylvaner is valued for its light, easy-drinking wines with subtle flavors of green apple, citrus, and fresh herbs. While not as complex or revered as Riesling or Gewurztraminer, Sylvaner from select vineyards in the Haut-Rhin can offer delightful freshness and minerality, making it a pleasant aperitif or companion to light dishes.
Most Famous Châteaux
- Domaine Weinbach – Famed for its rich and complex Gewurztraminer.
- Domaine Zind-Humbrecht – A leader in biodynamic viticulture, producing outstanding Riesling.
- Hugel & Fils – Known for its traditional approach and exceptional quality across varietals.
- Trimbach – Renowned for its Clos Sainte Hune Riesling.
- Domaine Ostertag – A biodynamic pioneer, producing expressive, terroir-driven wines.
Visiting the Alsace Wine Region
There are many wine tours and tastings in Alsace to choose from. Some of the most popular options include a walking tour and wine tasting in Colmar for €45, day trips to the Alsace wine region from Strasbourg starting around €100 and private wine tours in the €300 range.
You can travel from the capital of Alsace, Strasbourg, to the wine producing regions and scenic towns like Colmar in under an hour by car. This makes for an easy and convenient day trip to the medieval villages of Alsace from Strasbourg.
Provence
Provence is the heartland of rosé wine, offering a palette of colors and styles that range from light and crisp to full and structured. The region’s sunny climate and Mediterranean influences also contribute to the production of aromatic reds and some whites.
Notable Subregions and Grape Varieties
Côtes de Provence
The Côtes de Provence is the largest appellation in Provence and is particularly famous for its rosé wines, which constitute a significant portion of its production. The main grape varieties used in the Côtes de Provence include:
- Grenache: A key variety for rosés, offering fruitiness and body.
- Syrah: Adds structure and spice to blends.
- Cinsault: Provides softness and aromatics, ideal for rosé.
- Mourvèdre: Contributes structure and complexity, especially in reds and some rosés.
- Tibouren: Often used in rosé, known for its aromatic qualities.
- Carignan and Cabernet Sauvignon: Used to a lesser extent for red wines, adding depth and structure.
These varieties are blended in various proportions to create the region’s signature rosé wines, known for their light color, crisp acidity, and fresh, fruity flavors. The Côtes de Provence also produces red and white wines, with varieties like Rolle (Vermentino) for whites, adding floral and citrus notes.
Bandol
Bandol is renowned for its high-quality red wines, which are considered among the best in Provence, as well as its rosés. The main grape varieties here are:
- Mourvèdre: The cornerstone of Bandol’s reds, it thrives in the region’s sunny, warm climate and limestone-clay soils. Mourvèdre-based wines are known for their deep color, rich tannins, and flavors of dark fruit, earth, and game. It is also used in rosé production, lending complexity and structure.
- Grenache and Cinsault: For both red and rosé wines, adding softness, fruitiness, and balance.
- Syrah: Adds spice and depth to the blends.
Most Famous Châteaux
- Domaine Tempier – A benchmark for Bandol, known for its age-worthy reds.
- Château de Pibarnon – Offers some of the most refined Bandol wines.
- Château d’Esclans – Producer of the famed Whispering Angel rosé.
- Domaine Ott – Renowned for its elegant, premium rosés.
- Château Minuty – Produces top-tier rosé wines that epitomize the Provencal style.
Visiting the Provence Wine Region
Provence is a perfect destination for the summertime. Not only do you have easy-drinking rosé that pairs so wonderfully with the sunshine, but there are lots of medieval villages and lavender fields to see. Half-day wine tastings and tours in Aix-en-Provence start at €85 while full-day tours range from €150 to €350.
If you’re staying in Nice or Avignon, the Provence Wine Region is only a short drive away. A day trip to the Provence Wine Region from Nice will require only a 90 minute drive at the most, while a day tour to Provence from Avignon will only take about 2 hours by car. Wine tasting tours from Nice start at €100, and you can find deals from Avignon for as low as €85.
Languedoc-Roussillon
Languedoc-Roussillon is France’s most extensive wine region, known for its value-driven wines and innovative winemaking. The region produces a wide range of styles, from rich, spicy reds to refreshing whites and rosés, under the Mediterranean sun.
Notable Subregions and Grape Varieties
Minervois
Minervois wines are known for their richness and complexity, with red wines dominating the production. The main grape varieties used in Minervois include:
- Syrah: Contributes structure, spice, and dark fruit flavors.
- Grenache: Adds warmth, body, and red fruit notes.
- Carignan: Offers color, acidity, and tannins, along with rustic flavors.
- Mourvèdre: Provides depth, tannin, and dark fruit characteristics.
These varieties are often blended to create balanced and complex wines. Minervois also produces a smaller quantity of white wines, utilizing varieties such as Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Roussanne, and Vermentino.
Corbières
Corbières is one of the largest appellations in Languedoc-Roussillon and produces predominantly red wines known for their boldness and intensity. The main grape varieties include:
- Carignan: The backbone of many blends, offering structure and fruitiness.
- Syrah: Adds elegance, color, and spicy notes.
- Grenache: Contributes body and sweet fruit flavors.
- Mourvèdre: Enhances the wine’s complexity, color, and longevity.
These grapes are blended in various proportions to achieve the desired balance of fruit, tannin, and acidity. Corbières also makes rosé and some white wines, with Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, and Roussanne among the white varieties used.
Picpoul de Pinet
Picpoul de Pinet is somewhat unique in the Languedoc-Roussillon region for its focus on a single white grape variety:
- Picpoul (or Piquepoul Blanc): Known for its crisp acidity, green apple, and citrus flavors, Picpoul de Pinet is a refreshing and zesty white wine. It pairs exceptionally well with seafood, thanks to its minerality and vibrant acidity.
Most Famous Châteaux
- Château Puech-Haut – Known for its powerful and expressive reds.
- Domaine de la Grange des Pères – Produces one of the most coveted wines in the Languedoc.
- Mas de Daumas Gassac – Often referred to as the “Lafite of the Languedoc,” known for its red blend.
- Château de la Négly – Offers high-quality wines from the La Clape appellation.
- Domaine Peyre Rose – Renowned for its age-worthy and complex reds.
Visiting the Languedoc-Roussillon Wine Region
Most wine tours and tastings in the Languedoc-Roussillon Wine Region depart from Montpellier, which is located right in the heart of Languedoc. From there, you’re only a 30-minute drive from Picpoul de Pinet, and a 60 to 90-minute drive from Minervois and Corbières.
Many of the most popular wine tastings include pairings with local cuisine, especially oysters and olive oil, which will only set you back about €70 or €80. If you want to add a hike to the top of Pic Saint Loup expect to pay closer to €100 and with lunch for €145. The most exclusive full-day private tours in Languedoc-Roussillon start at €350.
Beaujolais
Beaujolais is celebrated for its vibrant, fruity red wines made from the Gamay grape. The region is known for its Beaujolais Nouveau, but beyond this, it offers a range of styles from light and refreshing to more structured and complex wines in its Crus.
Notable Subregions and Grape Varieties
Beaujolais Villages
The Beaujolais Villages designation is a step up from the basic Beaujolais AOC, offering wines with more depth and structure. These wines are primarily made from:
- Gamay: This grape is the heart and soul of Beaujolais, known for producing light to medium-bodied wines with low tannins and high acidity, featuring flavors of red fruits like cherries, raspberries, and strawberries, often with hints of banana and bubble gum due to the carbonic maceration fermentation process frequently used in the region.
The Ten Beaujolais Crus
The ten Beaujolais Crus are the highest quality classifications within the Beaujolais region, each named after its own individual village or area and offering distinct flavor profiles and characteristics. The main grape variety across all Crus is:
- Gamay: In the Crus, however, Gamay expresses a broader spectrum of flavors and complexities, influenced by the varied terroirs of each Cru. These wines tend to have more structure, depth, and potential for aging compared to Beaujolais and Beaujolais Villages wines.
The ten Crus, listed from north to south, are Saint-Amour, Juliénas, Chénas, Moulin-à-Vent, Fleurie, Chiroubles, Morgon, Régnié, Côte de Brouilly, and Brouilly. Each Cru has its unique soil composition and microclimate, contributing to distinct wine profiles ranging from the floral and aromatic Fleurie to the full-bodied and tannic Moulin-à-Vent.
Most Famous Châteaux
- Château de Pizay – One of the oldest and most picturesque estates, known for its approachable wines.
- Domaine Marcel Lapierre – A pioneer of natural winemaking in Beaujolais, especially in Morgon.
- Château des Jacques – Owned by Louis Jadot, this estate produces some of the most structured Beaujolais wines.
- Domaine Jean Foillard – Renowned for Morgon wines that rival fine Burgundies in complexity.
- Château Thivin – The oldest estate on Mont Brouilly, producing exquisite Côte de Brouilly.
Visiting the Beaujolais Wine Region
As Lyon is only 30 kilometers south of the Beaujolais Wine Region, most wine tours and tastings in Lyon will take you to one or more of the prestigious Beaujolais châteaux. The Rhône Valley Wine Region is about the same distance in the other direction, so you’ll find lots of offers to that region as well.
Beaujolais Segway tours with wine tastings are popular ways to explore the region and only cost €59. You can find many half-day Beaujolais wine tasting tours for €99, whereas a full-day tour will cost anywhere from €140 to €240 depending on the size of your group.
Southwest France (Sud-Ouest)
The Southwest of France is a treasure trove of diverse and underappreciated wines, spanning from robust reds to sweet, aromatic whites. The region is home to a variety of local grape varieties, offering unique flavors and wine styles distinct from the rest of France.
Notable Subregions and Grape Varieties
Madiran
Madiran is renowned for its powerful and tannic red wines, primarily made from:
- Tannat: This is the cornerstone grape of the Madiran appellation, known for producing robust, full-bodied wines with high levels of tannins and dark fruit flavors. Tannat is often blended with other varieties to soften its tannins and add complexity.
- Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon: These varieties are commonly used in blends with Tannat to enhance the structure and aroma of the wine, contributing notes of red fruit, green bell pepper, and a touch of elegance.
The use of Tannat defines the identity of Madiran wines, offering significant aging potential due to their tannic structure and complexity.
Jurançon
Jurançon, on the other hand, is famous for its dry and sweet white wines, characterized by their aromatic complexity and freshness. The main grape varieties used in Jurançon include:
- Petit Manseng: This variety is primarily responsible for the sweet wines of Jurançon, producing concentrated wines with high acidity and flavors of tropical fruits, honey, and spices. The high natural sugar concentration and acidity of Petit Manseng allow these wines to age well.
- Gros Manseng and Courbu: These varieties are often used to produce dry Jurançon wines, contributing freshness, body, and flavors ranging from citrus to exotic fruits, with a hint of floral notes.
The microclimate of the Jurançon region, with its warm, sunny days and cool nights, is ideal for the development of noble rot (Botrytis cinerea) in sweet wine production, enhancing the complexity and concentration of flavors in the grapes.
Most Famous Châteaux
- Château Montus – A leading producer in Madiran, known for its powerful Tannat wines.
- Domaine du Cinquau – Offers exceptional Jurançon wines.
- Château Bouscassé – Also owned by Alain Brumont, producing high-quality Madiran wines.
- Domaine Berthoumieu – Produces both traditional and modern styles of Madiran.
- Clos Uroulat – Charles Hours’ estate known for its exquisite Jurançon Sec and sweet wines.
Visiting the Southwest France Wine Region
Toulouse is the biggest major city in the Southwest France Wine Region, and is located right in the heart of the region, so it makes a great starting point to travel to the châteaux of Madiran and Jurançon. These sub-regions are located east and southeast of Toulouse, approaching the Pyrenees mountains.
The most popular wine tour to Southwest France from Toulouse stops at one vineyard for a tasting, but is primarily a day trip to Cité de Carcassonne — Europe’s largest walled city. This full-day tour costs €132 per person for a group of eight. Another option is to stay in Toulouse for a guided wine tasting for €89.
Corsica
Corsica, the “Island of Beauty,” produces wines as diverse and fascinating as its landscapes. The island’s wine production is marked by a blend of traditional French grapes with unique local varieties, offering a distinct character influenced by its mountainous terrain and maritime climate.
Notable Subregions and Grape Varieties
Patrimonio
Patrimonio, located in the north of Corsica, was the first area on the island to gain AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) status and is known for both red and white wines. The main grape varieties in Patrimonio include:
- Niellucciu: This is the predominant grape variety for red and rosé wines in Patrimonio, closely related to Sangiovese. Niellucciu produces wines with strong character, offering aromas of red fruits, spices, and a notable earthiness, along with firm tannins and good aging potential.
- Vermentino (locally known as Rolle): This grape is used for white wines in Patrimonio, producing aromatic and crisp wines with flavors of citrus, green apple, and floral notes, along with a distinct minerality and acidity that make them quite refreshing.
Ajaccio
The Ajaccio appellation, situated on the west coast of Corsica, is known for red, rosé, and some white wines, characterized by their elegance and aromatic complexity. The main grape varieties in Ajaccio include:
- Sciaccarellu: This grape is predominant in Ajaccio, producing red and rosé wines that are lighter in tannins than those made from Niellucciu. Sciaccarellu offers a unique profile of spicy and peppery notes, along with flavors of fresh red fruits and a subtle floral hint, leading to wines that are both delicate and complex.
- Vermentino (Rolle): Also used in Ajaccio for white wines, Vermentino here expresses a slightly different character due to the appellation’s unique terroir, with a bit more body and complexity, while maintaining its hallmark acidity and aromatic freshness.
Most Famous Wineries
- Domaine Comte Abbatucci – A biodynamic leader producing wines with unique Corsican varietals.
- Clos Canarelli – Known for its expressive wines that capture the essence of Corsica.
- Domaine de Torraccia – Pioneers in organic viticulture on the island.
- Domaine Arena – Produces some of the most sought-after wines in Patrimonio.
- Yves Leccia – Renowned for elegant and refined wines from native Corsican grapes.
Visiting the Corsica Wine Region
There are limited options for wine tours in Corsica, so you’re best renting a car and mapping out your own itinerary to the sub-regions and wine styles that attract you the most. If you prefer not to drive, you have a couple of options in Calvi and Zilia for wine tours and tastings in Corsica.
If you’re staying in the capital, you’ll have Ajaccio vineyards to visit all around you. Otherwise, Patrimonio is approximately 150 kilometers (about 93 miles) from Ajaccio, and the drive typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. This journey takes you across some of Corsica’s beautiful landscapes, from coastal views to mountainous terrains, making it a scenic drive.
Jura
The Jura region, nestled between Burgundy and Switzerland, is renowned for its distinctive wines, including the nutty, oxidative Vin Jaune and the sweet Vin de Paille. The region’s cool climate and varied terroir contribute to the unique character of its wines, which also include vibrant Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
Notable Subregions and Grape Varieties
Arbois
Arbois is the largest appellation in the Jura, producing a wide range of wine styles, including red, white, rosé, and the region’s famous Vin Jaune (“Yellow Wine”). The main grape varieties in Arbois include:
- Chardonnay: Widely planted in Arbois, Chardonnay is used to produce both traditional white wines and Vin Jaune, showcasing a broad spectrum of styles from fresh and fruity to rich and nutty, often with a notable minerality.
- Savagnin: This local variety is the star when it comes to Vin Jaune, a unique wine that undergoes extended barrel aging under a veil of yeast. Savagnin lends itself to complex, oxidative wines with flavors of nuts, spices, and dried fruits.
- Poulsard (Ploussard): A red grape variety that produces light, delicate wines with a characteristic pale color and aromas of red fruits and earthy notes.
- Trousseau: Another red grape variety, Trousseau yields more structured and fuller-bodied wines than Poulsard, with deeper color and a richer flavor profile that includes dark fruits, spices, and sometimes floral notes.
Château-Chalon
Château-Chalon is exclusively dedicated to the production of Vin Jaune, one of the most esteemed and distinctive wines in the world, made from Savagnin grapes. The wines from this appellation are known for their exceptional quality and longevity, embodying the essence of Savagnin’s potential in the Jura’s unique terroir.
Vin Jaune from Château-Chalon is celebrated for its intense flavors of nuts, curry, dried fruits, and its remarkable ability to age, developing complexity over decades.
Most Famous Châteaux
- Domaine de la Pinte – Known for its pioneering biodynamic practices and exceptional Arbois wines.
- Domaine Jean-François Ganevat – Produces a wide range of wines, from classic Jura styles to innovative blends.
- Château Chalon – Not a château but an appellation producing the finest Vin Jaune.
- Domaine Henri Maire – A significant name in Jura, known for both traditional and modern wines.
- Domaine André et Mireille Tissot – Excels in both sparkling and still wines, including superb Vin Jaune.
Visiting the Jura Wine Region
According to Travel+Leisure magazine, this French region is the wine world’s best kept secret. This is confirmed by the limited day trips and wine tours available from the major cities nearby, including Dijon and Lyon.
Your best bet is to rent a car and follow one of the many wine routes laid out in the Jura wine region, such as the Route de Poulsard. If you stop in the charming town of Arbois, you can visit the house of Louis Pasteur, where he studied the process of alcoholic fermentation.
Savoie
Savoie is a picturesque wine region nestled in the French Alps, known for its crisp, aromatic whites and a few light reds. The region’s mountainous terrain and cool climate are ideal for grape varieties such as Jacquère, Altesse (Roussette), and Mondeuse.
Notable Subregions and Grape Varieties
Vin de Savoie
Vin de Savoie AOC encompasses a broad area with various crus and is known for both white and red wines, with the following main grape varieties:
- Jacquère: The most widely planted grape variety in Savoie, Jacquère is used primarily for white wines. It produces light, refreshing wines with high acidity and flavors of green apple, citrus, and floral notes, embodying the crisp, alpine freshness of the region.
- Altesse: Also known for white wines, especially in the Roussette de Savoie AOC (discussed below). Altesse wines are more full-bodied than Jacquère, with complex aromas of white flowers, honey, and almonds.
- Chasselas: Used for white wines, primarily in the northern parts of Savoie. Chasselas wines are delicate, with subtle fruit flavors and minerality.
- Gamay and Pinot Noir: The main red grape varieties, producing light to medium-bodied red wines with red fruit flavors, and in the case of Gamay, sometimes spicy notes.
- Mondeuse: A local red grape variety that produces wines with more structure and tannin than Gamay or Pinot Noir, offering dark fruit flavors and peppery notes.
Roussette de Savoie
Roussette de Savoie AOC is dedicated to white wines made from the Altesse grape, locally known as Roussette, which produces aromatic and richly flavored wines with potential for aging. The wines often have a complex bouquet of ripe pears, peaches, honey, and nuts, along with a characteristic minerality and acidity that balance their richness.
Most Famous Châteaux
- Domaine Jean Perrier & Fils – Specializes in clean, mineral-driven whites from Savoie.
- Château de Ripaille – Known for its historic vineyards and refined Chasselas.
- Domaine René Quénard – Produces excellent Chignin-Bergeron with rich texture and complexity.
- Domaine Belluard – A biodynamic estate producing outstanding Mont Blanc wines from the Gringet variety.
- Château de Mérande – Renowned for its expressive and terroir-driven wines, particularly Roussette de Savoie.
Visiting the Savoie Wine Region
Located along the French Alps, the Savoie Wine Region is better known for its geographical features, such as Mont-Blanc, than its vineyards. However, the wineries are worth a visit not only due to the quality of their wines but also for featuring some of the most impressive landscapes in Europe.
If you’re staying in Geneva, Switzerland, consider booking a day trip to Mont-Blanc. While you’re there, you can take the opportunity to visit some of the prestigious Savoie wineries. Day trips from Geneva to Mont-Blanc start as low as €85.
Bugey
Bugey, a small wine region tucked away near the Jura Mountains, is gaining recognition for its diverse wines, including sparkling, still, and sweet varieties. The region’s cool climate and limestone soils contribute to the high acidity and freshness of its wines, particularly those made from Altesse, Chardonnay, and Gamay.
Notable Subregion and Grape Varieties
Cerdon
Cerdon is known for its lightly sparkling (pétillant), semi-sweet to sweet rosé wines, which are produced using the méthode ancestrale. This traditional method involves a single fermentation process that is halted to retain natural sweetness and then completed in the bottle, resulting in a naturally sparkling wine.
The main grape varieties used in the Cerdon subregion are:
- Poulsard (Ploussard): A grape variety also found in the Jura wine region,
Poulsard is known for producing light-bodied wines with a pale color and delicate flavors, contributing to Cerdon’s characteristic freshness and fruity profile, often with notes of red berries and a subtle floral aroma.
- Gamay: This variety, more famously associated with the Beaujolais region, adds body, fruitiness, and a deeper color to Cerdon. Gamay contributes flavors of ripe red fruits like strawberries and raspberries, enhancing the overall appeal of the wine.
Most Famous Châteaux
- Domaine du Cerdon – Renowned for its traditional méthode ancestrale sparkling rosé.
- Caveau Bugiste – Produces a range of Bugey wines, including fine sparkling and still whites.
- Domaine de Montagnieu – Known for its elegant and refined Montagnieu, a sparkling wine.
- Renaissance – A producer notable for its commitment to organic viticulture and quality Bugey wines.
- Domaine Saint-Germain – Focuses on expressive, terroir-driven wines from indigenous and international grape varieties.
Visiting the Bugey Wine Region
Nestled to the south of Jura and to the west of Savoie, you have the Bugey Wine Region. Similar to its neighbors, Bugey is often overlooked due to its size and has less wine tour offers available. However, if you’re in the area, you won’t regret visiting a winery to sample a glass or two.
Lorraine
Lorraine, often overshadowed by its neighboring wine regions, offers a unique viticultural experience with its cool climate and focus on delicate, light wines. The region is particularly known for its Vin de Pays des Côtes de Toul, producing mainly white wines from the Auxerrois grape and rosés and reds from Pinot Noir and Gamay.
Notable Subregion and Grape Variety
The Côtes de Toul is the standout appellation in Lorraine, known for its fresh and floral Auxerrois and elegant Pinot Noir.
- Auxerrois: This variety is closely related to Chardonnay and is the predominant white grape in the Côtes de Toul. Auxerrois wines are appreciated for their full-bodied nature, moderate acidity, and flavors that can include apple, pear, and hints of smokiness. It produces wines that are approachable and can exhibit a pleasant roundness.
- Pinot Noir: Used for both red and rosé wines, Pinot Noir in the Côtes de Toul creates light to medium-bodied wines with flavors of red fruits such as cherries and raspberries. The cooler climate of Lorraine allows Pinot Noir to maintain a higher acidity, contributing to the freshness and elegance of the wines.
Most Famous Châteaux
- Domaine de l’Ameillaud – Known for Auxerrois that balance acidity and fruitiness.
- Domaine Migot – A small, artisanal producer focusing on organic viticulture and traditional winemaking methods.
- Les Bons Vignerons de Velaine-en-Haye – Produces a range of wines that showcase the potential of Lorraine’s terroir.
- Domaine Régina – Specializes in Pinot Noir, producing wines with finesse and complexity.
- Domaine des Goujons – Renowned for its commitment to sustainable farming and quality wine production in the region.
Visiting the Lorraine Wine Region
Halfway between Champagne and Alsace in northwestern France, the Lorraine Wine Region is relatively tiny and very much under the radar compared to its larger and more popular neighbors.
A trip to the Lorraine Wine Region is worth the reputation points of trying the oddly-named Gray Wine, which is a white wine produced from red grapes lacking enough pigment to be a rosé. Impress your fellow wine lovers with a trip to the smallest wine region in France.
Cognac
Although not a wine region in the traditional sense, Cognac is world-famous for its production of the eponymous brandy. Made from white wine primarily from Ugni Blanc, the distilled spirit undergoes aging in oak barrels, acquiring complexity, elegance, and a wide range of flavors, from floral and fruity to rich and spicy.
Notable Subregions
Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne are known for producing the highest quality Cognac, with Borderies, Fins Bois, Bon Bois, and Bois Ordinaires also contributing to the diversity of the spirit’s profiles.
Most Famous Châteaux
- Hennessy – One of the most iconic Cognac houses, known for its consistency and quality.
- Martell – The oldest of the major Cognac houses, renowned for its elegant and complex spirits.
- Rémy Martin – Uses exclusively grapes from Grande and Petite Champagne, known for its Fine Champagne Cognac.
- Courvoisier – Famous for its Napoleon Cognac, symbolizing luxury and craftsmanship.
- Camus – Known for its intense aromatic profile and innovative approach to Cognac production.
Visiting the Cognac Wine Region
The Cognac Wine Region is only about a 90-minute drive from Bordeaux, so if your tongue is painted red from Merlot and you’re ready to try something stronger, the Cognac houses are waiting for you.
How to book a wine tasting tour in France?
No matter which wine region in France you plan to visit, you’ll find plenty of options on TourScanner. From guided tastings with a sommelier to day trips to the vineyards, all that your wine-loving heart desires can be found on TourScanner.
Each of these regions offers a unique glimpse into France’s rich viticultural heritage, promising every wine lover an unforgettable journey through some of the world’s most revered terroirs.
Whether you’re exploring the robust reds of Bordeaux, the delicate Champagnes, or the aromatic whites of Alsace, France’s wine regions cater to every palate, preference, and occasion.