VIN DE FRANCE
Created just over a decade ago, the Vin de France designation threw out the rule book for what French wine could be. There are a variety of reasons a wine can be labeled as such, and none of them have to do with quality.
The only requirement for a Vin de France wine is that it must be made from grapes grown in France. Beyond that, winemakers are free to blend grapes from multiple regions if they so choose, meaning they are not restricted by the location-based Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) or Indication Géographique Protégée (IGP) systems. Or, they are welcome to experiment with growing varieties not permitted within a particular appellation. This freedom from French wine tradition has led to a wealth of creative, boundary-pushing wines.
This freedom from French wine tradition has led to a wealth of creative, boundary-pushing wines.
Vin de France wines are often a great entry point for new wine drinkers and those looking to explore what France has to offer. Many of the most popular international varieties, like Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc find their spiritual homes in France. These and many more familiar varieties are produced under the Vin de France classification and often come at accessible price points.
Are you curious about the wines of Burgundy but often feel priced out? A number of Burgundian producers, like Simonnet-Febvre and Bouchard Aîné & Fils, produce Vin de France-labeled wines that serve as entry points to their more terroir-driven selections. They are sneak peaks into the producers’ higher-end wines, all without committing to the matching price tags.
To the average wine drinker, the French AOC laws and labeling requirements often seem intimidating. Many are left wondering what grapes are even in the bottle. Thankfully, Vin de France wines don’t require intimate knowledge of French wine laws, and all usually display modern-looking labels with grape varieties prominently listed. Matched with the accessible prices, Vin de France wines remain some of France’s most approachable wine options.
CHARDONNAY
Aromas of candied. —F.A.
