France's industrious grape-growing regions collectively produce around eight billion bottles of wine annually – that's around 348 bottles for every person in Australia to put it in perspective. Often acknowledged as the world's most prestigious and well-established viticulturists, we have the French to thank for Champagne, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc among others. Whether you're a red, white, dry, sparkling or fortified fan, France has the perfect vintage to suit your palate.
Bordeaux
Perhaps the most famous wine region in France – and the second largest after Languedoc-Roussillon – Bordeaux has a number of varietals under its belt, including Sauv Blanc, Semillon, Cab Sauv, Merlot and more. It's easy to lose yourself in the meandering vineyards of coastal Bordeaux, but make sure you resurface long enough to explore the Les Quais and La Victoire precincts.
Loire Valley
Raise a glass among the chateaus, castles and country manors in the Loire Valley, aka the Garden of France. The Heritage Listed region two hours south of Paris is the third-largest wine producer in the country, with rosé a spécialité. Listen out for the alleged "purest French" spoken in The Loire's historic towns as you ride your velo (that's a bicycle) through the rolling countryside.
Burgundy
Visiting Burgundy is like stepping inside a history book with tales of monks becoming the first vintners. Beyond being extolled for their fine wines, Burgundy is also widely considered the motherland of classic French cuisine. When you're not sampling the Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays, indulge with boeuf bourguinon, coq au vin or escargot.
Champagne
There's no guessing what Champagne is famous for – the iconic sparkling wines, of course. Bumping up against Belgium, the home of Dom Perignon is the coldest of France's winemaking provinces. To ensure its prestige remains, the area where grapes are grown and the amount of vin produced is restricted.
