Definition of French Wine
French wine is produced from grapes grown in one of France’s many regions, and all French wines are identified by their region names such as Bordeaux, Burgundy or Champagne. While grape varieties used for French wines vary depending on region, they typically include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. French wines can come in white, red or rose variations with alcohol contents ranging from 9-14% ABV; typically higher for better wines but more expensive overall.
Rome in Ancient Times
Origin of French Wine
French wine can be traced back to ancient Rome, with production beginning in the 5th century BC and widespread consumption among Roman soldiers on special occasions. They also introduced new grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir which remain popular today.
Popularity of French Wine During Rome’s Era
French wine enjoyed great popularity in Rome, being consumed by the ruling classes as a symbol of status and power. It was even used in religious ceremonies to honour the dead. Nowadays, you can still taste this same grape variety used for the production of French wines today.
Vineyard in the Dordogne – France
Middle Ages
Spread of French Wine Throughout Europe
The Middle Ages marked a dramatic expansion of French wine throughout Europe. Not only had their production methods become popularized, but their quality had also improved significantly. As such, French wines gained widespread recognition and appreciation among royalty and the aristocracy alike.
French Wine Production Methods
French wines during this era were primarily composed of Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir. These grape varieties have become synonymous with France, making them the most popular varietals found today in French wines. Red and white wines were produced throughout Loire Valley, Burgundy, Bordeaux and Rhone regions at this time; reds from Loire Valley while whites came from Burgundy or Bordeaux regions respectively.
Renaissance Era
Revolution in French Wine Production
The Renaissance brought about many changes in French wine production. Winemaking techniques became more precise, and oak barrel ageing became popular – this imparted a distinct flavour which is still evident today in French wines. Furthermore, French wines became increasingly popular with the aristocracy as winemakers produced higher-quality beverages.
Throughout this period, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir remained the two most popular grape varieties in French wine. However, the production of white wines also increased; regions such as Loire Valley, Burgundy, and Bordeaux began producing white wines like Chablis, Sancerre, and Chateau d’Yquem. Furthermore, some winemakers in Rhone Valley began experimenting with grape varieties like Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, and Semillon.
Contemporary Era
Expansion of the French Wine Industry
The expansion of France’s wine production began under Louis XIV, who declared that viniculture should be given special consideration. His decisions set in motion a period of rapid growth – vineyards grew from around 200 in the 15th century to more than 7,000 by the 18th century due to an expanding middle class and access to advanced technology like improved winemaking techniques, presses, and transportation methods.
Contemporary French Wine Styles
In the 19th century, French winemaking continued to progress with the introduction of new techniques like oak barrel ageing. This allowed producers to craft an array of styles. Most notable among these was the Champagne region which became home to some world-renowned sparkling wines; Bordeaux also gained notoriety as a producer of some top reds while Loire Valley gained notoriety for white wines.
Concluding Remarks
Brief Overview of French Wine History
French wine has a fascinating and diverse history that dates back centuries. From Bordeaux and Champagne to Rhone Valley and Burgundy, France has something for everyone when it comes to its wines – making it the ideal destination for any serious wine connoisseur. No matter your preferred style of vino, France truly does have something special for everyone – making it the ideal destination for any cinephile!
French Wine’s Global Reach
Today, France remains one of the world’s foremost wine industries with a variety of styles enjoyed by wine drinkers worldwide. From Champagne in the Champagne region to full-bodied reds in the Bordeaux region and complex white wines in Loire Valley or Burgundy region – France boasts an array of wines sure to please any palate. If you are planning to visit France, and that you love wine, you need to visit France’s top wine regions !