France is a country of wine, but each region has its own distinct style. France's winemaking is intrinsically linked to the land. The French have a word, terroir, that sums up the effect that the specific soil and climate has on the flavour of its wine. One region and its wine, produce and dishes will be markedly different from that of another region.

 

Travellers to Alsace are struck by its architecture and food – so different from the thyme - and lavender-scented hills of the Fitou wine region, or the busy Mediterranean port of Montpellier.

 

Indeed, many would argue that there's no such thing as 'French food', that there are innumerable regional styles that together make up the national cuisine.

The same could be said for 'French wine'. There's no single, defining French wine. But take the time to get to know each region's wine style, and you'll have a richer, clearer picture of the 'French wines' that add up to make 'French wine'.