CE N F RAA E C N
Overview: France produces some of the most sought-after and expensive wines on the planet. However, its famous, high-end wines only represent a small percentage of the country’s overall wine production.
FR
PARIS
champagne alsace
loire valley burgundy
RHÔNE
LOIRE
bordeaux
rhône languedocroussillon
provence
When deciphering the often-cryptic labels on French wine bottles, it’s good to know a few key facts. First, the French name each wine after the region in which it is produced, instead of the grapes used to make the wine. Second, each region has its own specific “wine laws” that dictate which grapes wineries are allowed to grow, and how their wines must be made. This ensures that all wines from the same region have a similar taste. So, wines from Bordeaux are made with a blend of Cabernet and Merlot, while wines from Burgundy are entirely made from Pinot Noir, if red, or Chardonnay, if white.
How to Buy: Even within the famous regions like Bordeaux or Burgundy, there are hidden gems from lesser known sub-regions. Off-the-beaten path places like Cotes du Rhone, the Loire Valley and Languedoc have recently emerged as areas that are cranking out high-quality, affordable wines, so you’ll find the best values here.
Major Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Grenache, Syrah
2007 Jean Dumont Chinon
2007 Domaine Brunet Pinot Noir Amazingly affordable French Pinot, from a little-known region that cranks out lots of great wines. Drink this stuff on a weeknight with mac and cheese.
red
re d
Languedoc-Roussillon, France | $11
2007 Simonnet-Febvre Saint Bris
2007 Domaine des Terres Falmet Cinsault Vin de Pays d’Oc
A bit of an oddball, this is a Sauvignon Blanc from the Burgundy region (which usually only produces Chardonnay). Throw off your wino friends for only a few bucks. GOOD.
Languedoc-Roussillon, France | $12 re d
Chablis, Burgundy, France | $12 w hit e
Chinon, Loire Valley, France | $12 Made from 100% Cabernet Franc, wines from Chinon are what the French drink while watching American sci-fi reruns on weeknights. One-up them by renting Amelie and popping a bottle stateside.
Another grape you don’t see very often, this Cinsault has light tannins and pairs perfectly with turkey dinner. This wine + cranberry sauce = a big hell yeah.
THE SECOND GLASS annual wine guide | 7
FRANCE