Different Types of French Wine

How to Buy the Best French Wine

There are many different types of wine that you can choose from, one of the most popular being French wine.

French wine is actually produced in several different regions around France, and is definitely considered as being one of the best types of wine in the world.

French wine is considered by many as being the best that there is, and there are a few pieces of information in particular that everyone should be aware of when it comes to French wines.

Learning About French Wines

When it comes to learning about French wines, it is basically a study of two particular topics: regions and grapes. In France there are actually laws that limit the varieties of grapes grown in different regions, which is really a good thing because they benefit the consumer enormously.

It ensures that only the best wines are produced, and that none are considered as being second best.

Pinot Noir

This is one of the most popular French wines, and this particular French wine is one that is smooth and silky with subtle yet elegant aromas. Pinot Noir is really anything but consistent or easy, and is definitely one of the most unique French wines. Pinot Noir is known as being one of the most difficult wines to ferment however, and this is partly due to the presence of 18 amino acids, which are naturally balanced in this variety.

Chardonnay

Another very popular French wine, chardonnay is loved by wine enthusiasts around the world. Rich is probably the best word to use to describe this wine, and its aroma is very distinct and yet difficult to characterize. There is a certain and specific delicacy to chardonnay and oak is a flavor which is commonly associated with it.

Chardonnay’s intrinsic black canvas quality is great because it allows its flavors to be dramatically affected by differences in the soil and in the climate. There is a widespread popularity with this wine around the world and it is now grown all around the world, although the chardonnay produced from regions of France is still the most popular.

There are many other great options as well when it comes to French wine, and it is definitely a favorite around the world. French wines play an enormously important role in French identity and pride, and if you ever visit France you will definitely have to sit down in a café or diner and try out an authentic glass of delicious French wine.

More Uncommon Red Wines and White Wines

Norton Wine

One of the more uncommon but interesting wines is the Norton wine. In 1835, Dr. Daniel Norton of Virginia developed this variety of grapes that was originally known as the Virginia Seedling.

It is widely planted in the Midwest where it is sometimes called Cynthiana and produces a dark, inky wine with plum and cherry flavoring.

Horton Vineyards in Virginia is particularly interested in reviving the grape’s reputation.

Muscadine Wine

Another rare but interesting wine is the Muscadine wine. It was first discovered by European explorers, who found Native American vines growing along the low-lying southern coastal regions. Most Muscadine wines (red and white) are blends, usually given proprietary names by the winery (e.g., “Vintners’ Blend”), and vinified in a sweet or semisweet style. Muscadine and its blends have a unique wild and musky aroma and flavor.

Centurion Wine

Centurion is an uncommon wine that hasn’t yet seen widespread acceptance. This wine was developed at the U.C. Davis campus by crossing Cabernet Sauvignon, with Grenache and Carignane. The intention was to produce a Cabernet-like wine which could be grown in the relatively hot Central Valley. Even with its limited exposure to wine lovers, is a definite improvement over traditional Central Valley varieties.

Roussanne

Roussanne probably gets its name from the light-brownish russet cast of its ripe berries. The aroma is not as overtly fruity as some types and can suggest wild flowers or herbal tea. Unlike most white wines, Roussanne ages very well due to its unusual combination of richness and crisp acids.

Marsanne

Marsanne, this wine sometimes uses Roussane as a blending partner. It makes wines that are medium dry, full bodied and very rich in flavor with notes of spice and pear. It is a very deep-colored wine that is fairly full bodied to the point of being described sometimes as waxy.

These wines may be uncommon but they are all excellent wines in their own right. I’m sure you will appreciate their fine tastes.

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