France by region
Burgundy and Beaujolais bring Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Gamay into sharp focus. Jura offers Savagnin, Chardonnay, Poulsard and Trousseau with a distinctive mountain character. Loire moves from Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc to Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadet, while Champagne, Alsace, Bordeaux and the Rhone each add their own structure to the range.
Classic regions, independent growers
Many of the most interesting French bottles here come from small growers rather than large houses. That can mean organic or biodynamic farming, careful work with old vines, traditional cellar methods, or simply a stronger sense of place than more anonymous wines can offer.
Choosing French wine
For freshness and precision, look toward Loire whites, Chablis, Alsace and Alpine bottles. For red wine, Beaujolais and lighter Loire reds are easy to drink, while Burgundy, Bordeaux, the Rhone and parts of the south bring more structure. Champagne and Jura are useful when you want something with a more particular identity.
