One of the most confusing subjects for American consumers is trying to understand wines from France. The wine labeling system in France is mostly based on region or appellation, not by the type of grape used to produce the wine.
So, here are some broad generalities regarding the wines from the various regions in France:
Bordeaux - The majority of wines from Bordeaux are red blends. The Left Bank wines are generally based on Cabernet Sauvignon while the Right Bank wines are based on Merlot. These blends may include Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petite Verdot and Malbec and Carmenère. Bordeaux's white wines are generally blends of Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc. Muscadelle may also be used in small quantities.
Champagne - This is the name of the world’s most famous sparkling wine. And, yes, it’s from the Champagne region of France. Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier (both of which are purple grapes) and Chardonnay are the primary grape varieties used to make Champagne.
Burgundy - The red wines from Burgundy are Pinot Noir and the white wines are Chardonnay.
Beaujolais - This region is famous for wines made from the Gamay grape.
Loire Valley - This region’s red wine is dominated by Cabernet Franc but the Loire Valley also grows Pinot Noir, Malbec (you may see it as Côt) and Gamay. White wines are Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Muscadet (also known as Melon de Bourgogne) and Chardonnay.
Rhone Valley - This region is best known for its red blends of Granache, Syrah and Mourvèdre (GSM) and white blends of Marsanne and Roussanne.
There are plenty of books completely devoted to the study of French wines. But, if you’re just walking down the wine aisle trying to decide on a French wine, I hope these simple notes help. Cheers!