France is like a haven for wine lovers; it is home to not one or two wine regions, but eleven wine regions, and many other smaller regions. It is a perfect destination for those who are looking to learn about the history of different wines, as well as to indulge in some of its finest.
Here are the top spots that one wouldn’t want to miss in their tours of France:
Bordeaux
No area is associated with fine wine in the region than the stunning and dynamic city of Bordeaux. It is home to about 8,000 wine chateaux making 700+ million bottles annually. The region presents an incredible selection of vineyards to visit and wines to try. It has great restaurants and trendy wine bars where one can sample as much as they can in an educational, though lively setting.
- Saint-Emilion
Saint-Emilion is inarguably Bordeaux’s prettiest village; highly sought after for its deep-coloured and full-bodied red wines. It also is one of the most historic wine towns in the region. Saint Emilion boasts of Les Cordeliers, a rustic winery that sits in the middle of the 14th Century ruins – Franciscan monastery. The winery is a top tourist destination and has been making sparkling Cremant de Bordeaux wine for over a century.
Other than the Les Cordeliers, other wineries in St. Emilion include the remarkable Chateau TroplongMondot and Chateau Coutet. Wine lovers who are looking to learn a thing or two about wines can also visit the Maison du Vin for some basic lessons of wine tasting. The Saint-Emilion Wine School offers daily sessions between mid-July and August, and Saturday sessions between April and November.
- Chateaux du Medoc
Lying on close to the Gironde River, the Medoc is a great destination that features the Chateaux of legends such as Latour, Margaux, and Mouton Rothschild. Other than tasting the fantastic wines of Medoc, wine lovers can also follow the Medoc wine route and have a view of the magnificent castles along the Famous Castle Route that stretches about 86 kilometres. Chateaux du Medoc produces some of the world’s famous wines like Moulis, Margaux, Saint-Estephe, Pauillac, and Saint-Julien.
Burgundy
Burgundy is France’s richest province; gastronomically, culturally and historically. Its beautiful landscapes and fine wines have attracted millions of wine lovers from across the globe over the years. In addition to their Meursault and Chambertin wines, Burgundy also offers a plethora of attractions like the 1609 square kilometres natural park.
- Chambertin
This the most admired red wine village in Cote d’Or, and is incredibly friendly, relaxed and bustling place with wide-ranging hotels, restaurants, and the beautiful Chateau.
- Chassagne Montrachet
Chassagne Montrachet is not only one of the crucial white wine villages in Burgundy, but also one of the prettiest. The chateau was constructed in the 11th century and includes a modern wine shop, tasting room, and a boutique hotel.
Champagne
Everyone loves the drink of romance and love, and this explains why wine lovers make Champagne a must-visit destination. But other than the fame, luxury, glamour, and sophistication that come with the word, the region itself is a fascinating and stunning place to visit. It packs great gourmet adventure, plenty of historic cities and towns, and Grand Champagne Houses where wine lovers can sip a glass of recently served Champagne.
- Veuve Clicquot
The house of Veuve Clicquot is a perfect place for an introduction to the folklore, history, and science behind the prestigious image of Champagne. Here, wine lovers can tour the cellars and get to enjoy a delicious glass of Champagnes.
- Reims
Famous across the world of endless Champagne labels, Reims provides great restaurants, a rich historic legacy, and vibrant nightlife for party lovers. The city homes different headquarters of Champagne Houses like Taittinger and Krig, who happily accept visitors.
Further exploration
The Netherlands is one of the most convenient extensions after a tour of France. So tourists looking for more than wine routes can hop on a train from Paris to Amsterdam, and continue exploring Europe.
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