A wine tasting trip in France is more than just a getaway—it’s a journey through centuries of tradition, breathtaking landscapes, and the passion of winemakers who turn grapes into liquid art.
While Napa Valley often steals the spotlight, France offers an unmatched variety of vineyards, each with its own unique character, history, and flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier with a refined palate or simply someone who enjoys relaxing with a good glass of wine 🍷, France has something truly special waiting for you.
Back home, French wines on supermarket shelves often come with a higher price tag, and opting for the budget-friendly bottles can sometimes be a gamble, leaving you less than impressed. But in France, the experience is completely different. Even the most affordable local wines have a freshness and authenticity that can be hard to find elsewhere, thanks to their rich traditions and focus on quality.
There’s nothing quite like tasting a crisp Sauvignon Blanc in the Loire Valley or savoring a robust Bordeaux right where it’s made—the flavors just hit differently when you’re surrounded by the vines that produced them.
Here’s why France’s vineyards deserve a top spot on your travel list and which iconic wine regions you shouldn’t miss.
Bordeaux: The Crown Jewel of French Wine
If you’ve ever sipped a silky red with notes of blackcurrant and cedar, chances are you’ve tasted Bordeaux. Known worldwide as the heart of fine wine, Bordeaux is home to over 6,000 wineries, producing some of the most prestigious blends.
Why Visit Bordeaux?
The vineyards here are a visual feast—endless rows of vines stretching over gently rolling hills, punctuated by grand châteaux that look straight out of a fairy tale. Many wineries, such as Château Margaux and Château Pétrus, offer guided tours where you can learn the intricacies of blending Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and other varietals. Here are 5 must do things in Bordeaux.
For an unforgettable stay in the Bordeaux region, Château Le Sèpe offers the perfect blend of history, charm, and wine culture. Read our interview with its co-owner and winemaker Mr. Dominique Guffond for more information. Main photo of the article is from Château Le Sèpe.
Don’t miss:
• La Cité du Vin: A wine museum and cultural center where you can immerse yourself in the history of winemaking. The museum offers a multi-lingual version of the Introduction to wine tasting workshop.
• Saint-Émilion: A UNESCO World Heritage site with cobblestone streets, underground wine cellars, and tastings at boutique wineries.
Burgundy: Where Terroir Tells the Story
When it comes to showcasing the power of terroir, Burgundy stands out. This region is all about small-scale producers who pour their hearts into every bottle. The area is famous for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, two grapes that thrive in Burgundy’s unique limestone soils.
Why Visit Burgundy?
Burgundy offers an intimate wine-tasting experience, with many family-owned domaines welcoming visitors for personal tours and tastings. The landscape is equally enchanting, with picturesque villages like Beaune serving as the perfect base for exploring the region.
Highlights include:
• Hôtel-Dieu in Beaune: This medieval hospital is now a museum and hosts the famous Hospices de Beaune wine auction.
• Route des Grands Crus: A scenic drive that takes you through some of the region’s most prestigious vineyards.
Champagne: Toast to Effervescence
No wine tasting trip in France is complete without a visit to Champagne, the birthplace of bubbly. Whether it’s for a celebration or a casual evening toast, Champagne’s sparkling wines have a way of making every moment feel special.
Stay either in Sacy, a picturesque village near Épernay, at Le Château de Sacy, or in Reims, home to renowned Champagne houses, at the luxurious Les Crayères.
Why Visit Champagne?
Champagne isn’t just about the drink; it’s an experience. Stroll through chalk cellars carved centuries ago, learn about the art of méthode champenoise, and, of course, savor some of the world’s best sparkling wines. Big names like Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot are must-visits, but don’t overlook smaller producers offering equally enchanting pours. This Champagne round-trip tour from Reims is highly popular.
Top picks 🍾:
• Épernay’s Avenue de Champagne: Often called the “Champs-Élysées of Champagne,” this street is lined with prestigious houses.
• Reims Cathedral: A stunning Gothic landmark where French kings were crowned, adding a historic touch to your visit.
Provence: Rosé All Day
If your idea of a wine tasting trip in France includes warm sun, lavender fields, and leisurely afternoons, Provence is calling your name. This region is synonymous with rosé, but its reds and whites are equally delightful.
Why Visit Provence?
The laid-back charm of Provence is irresistible. Imagine sipping a glass of crisp rosé at a vineyard overlooking the Mediterranean, with cicadas chirping in the background. Vineyards like Château Miraval (yes, the one owned by Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie) offer stunning settings and equally impressive wines.
For a wine tasting tour in Provence, stay in Gordes at La Bastide de Gordes, a luxurious hilltop retreat offering panoramic vineyard views, or in Lauris at Domaine de Fontenille, a boutique winery and hotel in the Luberon that combines elegant accommodations with exceptional wine experiences.
Don’t miss:
• Les Baux-de-Provence: A hilltop village surrounded by vineyards producing full-bodied reds.
• Côtes de Provence Wine Route: A journey through some of the region’s best wineries, all offering the quintessential Provençal experience.
The Loire Valley: France’s Garden of Wine
Known as the “Garden of France,” the Loire Valley is as famous for its majestic châteaux as it is for its diverse wines. From crisp Sauvignon Blancs to lush Chenin Blancs and earthy Cabernet Francs, there’s a wine for every palate.
Stay in Blois for its central location and access to major attractions like Château de Blois and the Loire River.
Why Visit the Loire Valley?
The Loire Valley is perfect for travelers who love to combine wine tasting with a bit of history. Tour iconic châteaux like Château de Chambord, Château de Chenonceau, or the historic Château de Blois, then relax with a glass of Sancerre or Vouvray.
Must-visit spots:
• Chinon: Known for its robust reds and charming medieval town.
• Saumur: Home to sparkling wines that rival those of Champagne.
Alsace: Where Wine Meets Fairytales
Tucked in the northeast corner of France, Alsace is a region that feels like it’s straight out of a storybook. Timber-framed houses, flower-filled streets, and rolling vineyards make it a feast for the eyes—and the palate.
Why Visit Alsace?
Alsace’s wines, particularly Riesling and Gewürztraminer, are as vibrant as the region itself. The Alsace Wine Route offers a scenic drive through quaint villages like Riquewihr and Eguisheim, where you can stop for tastings along the way.
Highlights:
• Colmar: Often called the “Little Venice” of France, this town is as charming as it gets.
• Grand Cru Vineyards: The region boasts 51 Grand Cru sites, each offering a unique expression of Alsatian wine.
Plan Your Wine Tasting Trip in France
Planning a wine tasting trip in France might feel overwhelming with so many incredible options, but that’s part of the adventure! Whether you choose Bordeaux’s regal elegance, Burgundy’s rustic charm, or Champagne’s sparkling allure, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience.
A few tips for your journey:
• Timing: The best time to visit is during harvest season (September to October) when the vineyards come alive with activity.
• Tours: Consider booking guided wine tours to get insider knowledge and access to exclusive tastings.
• Stay Local: Many wineries offer charming accommodations, so you can wake up surrounded by vines.
