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Taking the Inferiority Complex Out of French Wines

Don't let French wines intimidate you anymore!

by Wine Taster
published: 06 Apr 2009       | Comments

The French are known for their fabulous French wines as well as their French attitudes. Their bravado is well deserved as they're still near the top of the global wine producer list. Getting to know about French wines can be intimidating. But don't let French wines bully you. As with all wines, it really boils down to what you like. Be bold enough to experiment and explore the world of French wines.

How to Overcome the Inferiority Complex Towards French Wines:

• Start tasting a variety of French wines now! There are 19 different varieties of grapes used for wine making in France and several different regions that produce quality wine. Remember, price isn't everything. Try a variety of price ranges and types of grapes.


• Break it down! Once you've given yourself a broad introduction to French wines, start narrowing things down and taste by region. Names of wine regions in France quickly reveal their specialties. Champagne, Bordeaux and Burgundy are among the top producing regions. Make it a goal to taste French wines from each region and focus on the area's specialty.


• Know your stuff! There are four main categories of French wines. Wines labeled AOC, or Appellation d'Origine Controlee, are produced under strict regulations related to the region, variety, yield and several other categories. These rules are set forth to preserve the characteristics of French wines. French wines designated as VDQS, Vin Delimite de Qualite Superieure, are held to the same standards but are still waiting on the AOC designation. Differentiate AOC wines from wines labeled Vin De Pays. The regulations governing these wines are more lenient, particularly as they relate to varieties used. The label Vins De Table De France designates wines that are considered to be entry level.


• Write it down! Keep track of the different wines that you try. Take notes on what you like and don't like. Keep it simple at first and remember that it's all about what tastes good to you. On the second round, try some of your favorite varieties again, but from a different region. Record the subtle differences.

Make it a goal to try as many French wines as you can and soon you will be over the fear of French wine. Much like the French, once you take the time to learn the language of French wines, they will open up to you and show you all you need to know to appreciate them properly!