Explore France's most beautiful wine villages

Renowned for producing some of the best wines in the world, France attracts many visitors every year looking to get a look into the behind-the-scenes action of their favourite grape juice.

Wine tasting holidays in France are all the rage, but with so many sublime places to try, it can be difficult to choose where to head. With this in mind, we have put together a list of the top 5 wine villages to see in France that offer all of the charming allure that you’d expect from a French community, along with phenomenal world-class wine and enchanting vineyards.

1- Riquewihr, Alsace

Riquewihr

Known as the most beautiful village in France, the idyllic medieval streets of Riquewihr are lined with houses dating as far back as the 16th century and are renowned for their architectural heritage. Yet, this Alsace jewel also boasts a flourishing wine scene.

If you’re on the lookout for the best wine villages in France, this little haven produces some of the world’s most iconic whites. Famous grape varieties such as Riesling, Pinot Girs, Muscat and Gewurztraminer are all grown in Riquewihr, along with more under-the-radar types such as Sylvaner, Pinot Auxerrois and Pinot Blanc.

2- Cassis, Provence

cassis

A charming fishing village in the Provence region of France, Cassis offers all of the seaside appeal of the Cote d'Azur alongside a quiet, humble ambiance. And, of course, there’s a fantastic wine selection.

Another wonderful producer of whites, the wine from Cassis is renowned for being full-bodied and herbal scented. After experiencing the finest wine tasting in France, why not get out and explore the stunning lavender fields that Provence is so famous for?

3- St. Emilion, Bordeaux

St Emilion

St. Emilion sits in an idyllic hill-top position surrounded by the enchanting vineyards of the iconic wine region of Bordeaux. On top of meandering around the village’s gorgeous medieval streets, you will also be able to sample some of the best red wine in France.

While Merlot and Cabernet have already become household names, those from St. Emilion are famed for their unique and distinctive notes. The local Merlot has a rich, soft texture and notes of plum, blackberry and chocolate. The cabernet, on the other hand, bursts onto the tongue with distinctive strawberry and cherry flavors that work perfectly with the vanilla notes.

4- Hautvillers, Champagne

Hautvilliers

Where better to go wine tasting in France than Hautvillers, the birthplace of Champagne? Nestled in the hills of the Mountain of Reims Regional National Park, the charming village is full of winding narrow streets and incredible views.

During the 17th century, a local monk by the name of Dom Perignon set his sights on making the finest wine in the world. In 1693 in the village’s Abbey of Saint-Pierre, he did just that by creating the world’s first champagne and went on to become an icon in the wine world.

5- Vézelay, Burgundy

Vézelay

Lying in the region of Burgundy, Beaune is home to the largest village appellation in the Cote d’Or and is one of the most wonderful wine areas of France. Chardonnay is the predominant white grape variety in this neck of the woods, while the reds are mainly produced from Pinot Noir.

The village itself is a great place to explore. An area of spiritual significance, the Vezelay has an incredible 12th-century basilic, called the Basilica of Sainte Marie-Madeleine which is a UNESCO World Heritage site home to relics of Saint Mary Magdalene. Between the stunning church and world-class wine, Vézelay is a marvelous place to visit in France.

Summary

When it comes to wine, nothing quite compares to those in France. Whether you’re looking for Champagne or a deep, full-bodied red, the wine in this country is sure to exceed all expectations and leave you impressed.

If you’re planning a visit to France and are looking for wine tours and tastings, Wine Paths has a fantastic selection of packages to choose from. You can browse our range of wine holidays here.

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