France

France is home to most of the world’s international wine styles. Enduring archetypes of red wine began in France’s Bordeaux (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot) and Rhone Valley (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre), Burgundy originated two legendary grapes that also give us Champagne (Chardonnay and Pinot Noir) while the Loire gave us the world’s key fresh whites (Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc) and Alsace gave our main aromatics (Riesling, Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer). Today France combines tradition and innovation, with both table and top wines justifying sustained demand thanks to the interplay of strict production laws, advanced technology, local knowledge and deep commitment to both old and new principles in wine.