Explore the best wine regions in France—Lyon, Bordeaux, and the South. Discover immersive experiences, from wine tastings to pairing workshops, and plan your perfect trip!
The French do it well. And by 'it', we mean making and enjoying high-quality food. It is their norm to ritually gather at the table, devoting un-distracted attention to the dishes and people that surround them. It is, simply, a way of life.
However, you can’t talk about the French art of food without celebrating their deep-rooted French wine culture. Across the sun-soaked vineyards that stretch through the country, lifelong winemakers rise before dawn to harvest the grapes, their red-stained boots telling the story of centuries-old traditions.
Known for its exceptional cuisine and rich history, France is equally a paradise for wine lovers. In 2023 alone, each French adult consumed an impressive 24.2 liters of wine, a testament to the nation’s enduring passion for the craft.
In this article, we highlight Lyon, Bordeaux, and the South of France as the best wine regions in France for travelers, and the experiences offered that will leave wine lovers enchanted.
France’s Viticultural Landscapes
What does viticultural landscape mean? It refers to the geographical and environmental conditions which influence the grapes and wine production. These conditions include the type of soil, climate, topography and what humans have done to the terrain.
Key features of Lyon's Viticultural landscape
Urban Vineyards: Lyon’s Vignes du Crâpet, situated on the steep slopes of Croix-Rousse hill, benefit from the urban microclimate. These vineyards thrive in the city’s relatively mild weather, with the hill’s exposure to sunlight providing optimal growing conditions. The clay-limestone soils of the area lend structure to the vines, reflecting the city's agricultural roots while integrating nature into the urban landscape.
Beaujolais Region: North of Lyon, the Beaujolais region is renowned for its distinct terroir, which shapes its vibrant red wines. The vineyards here are planted on rolling hills that benefit from granite and schist soils, ideal for the Gamay grape. The combination of soil composition and the region's continental climate—characterized by warm summers and cool autumns—ensures a long growing season that encourages balanced ripening. The higher elevation and sun-soaked slopes of Cru Beaujolais villages like Morgon and Moulin-à-Vent produce wines with greater depth, minerality, and complexity.
Côtes du Rhône: South of Lyon, the Côtes du Rhône region spans diverse landscapes, from low-lying riverbanks to hilly vineyards. The region’s Mediterranean climate—hot summers tempered by the Mistral wind—promotes healthy, stress-free grape growth. Soils here range from limestone and clay to gravel and sandy alluvial deposits, creating diverse growing conditions for a wide variety of grapes. The northern Rhône’s steep, terraced vineyards are famous for producing powerful Syrah wines, while the southern Rhône, with its pebbly galets roulés soils, excels at blending Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Syrah to create bold, full-bodied reds, particularly in the celebrated Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation.
While Lyon may not be as well-known for its wine as regions like Bordeaux or Burgundy, its viticultural landscape offers a unique and enjoyable experience for wine enthusiasts. The combination of urban vineyards, nearby wine-growing areas, and Lyon's rich culinary traditions make it a destination worth exploring for wine lovers.
A glimpse of Bordeaux’s viticultural landscape
Bordeaux, renowned for its world-class wines, boasts a diverse and captivating viticultural landscape shaped by centuries of winemaking tradition and unique geographical conditions. The region's vineyards are primarily situated between the Garonne and Dordogne rivers, which converge to form the Gironde estuary, creating a microclimate that is ideal for grape cultivation.
Bordeaux's Left Bank vs. Right Bank Wines: The region is traditionally divided into two banks of the Gironde. The Left Bank, known for its powerful and structured red wines, is dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grape varieties, whereas the Right Bank, renowned for its elegant and complex red wines, primarily features Merlot and Cabernet Franc.
Gravel and Clay Soils: The soils in Bordeaux vary widely, but gravel and clay are particularly important. Gravel soils, found on the Left Bank, help to drain excess water and retain heat, ideal for producing structured wines. Clay soils, common on the Right Bank, tend to retain moisture and nutrients, resulting in wines with more body and complexity
Châteaux and Vineyards: The Bordeaux region is dotted with historic châteaux, many of which have been producing wine for centuries. These estates often have extensive vineyards, showcasing the region's commitment to quality winemaking.
River Influences: The Garonne and Dordogne rivers play a crucial role in Bordeaux's climate. They help to moderate temperatures, preventing extreme heat or cold, and also contribute to the region's unique microclimates.
Wine production in the South of France
Southern France, bathed in the warm Mediterranean sun, boasts a rich viticultural heritage that spans centuries. From the coastal city of Nice to the historic center of Toulouse, the region's diverse landscapes offer a tapestry of wine-growing experiences. The region's Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters, provides ideal conditions for grape cultivation. The ample sunshine and moderate temperatures contribute to the development of ripe, flavorful grapes.
Along the Mediterranean coast, vineyards often benefit from sea breezes that help to regulate temperatures and prevent excessive heat. The coastal areas, such as around Nice, produce a variety of wines, including rosé, white, and red.
Inland, the Plateau de Larzac, near Millau, is a rugged limestone plateau that is home to vineyards producing high-quality red wines, particularly those made from Syrah and Grenache grapes. In Toulouse and the surrounding Gascony region, Armagnac is produced, a fortified spirit made from distilled grape must. The vineyards in this area also produce a variety of wines, including red, white, and rosé.
Finally, the Cote d'Azur, stretching from Nice to Cannes, is renowned for its beautiful scenery and luxurious lifestyle. This region also produces a variety of wines, including Bandol, a red wine made from Mourvèdre grapes.
Lyon: A Hidden Gem of Wine Country
Often overshadowed by its glamorous neighbor, Paris, Lyon is a city steeped in history and culture. Nestled amidst rolling hills and vineyards, Lyon is the real ‘’food capital’’ and a wine lover's dream.
Wine culture in Lyon
Don’t know where to try the best wine in Lyon?
Bouchons: These traditional Lyonnais restaurants are the perfect place to experience the city's wine culture. Pair your meal with a local Beaujolais or Côtes du Rhône, and you'll be transported back in time.
Wine Shops and Bars: Lyon has a growing number of wine shops and bars where you can sample a variety of wines from the region and beyond.
Wine Tastings with Locals: Meet locals, gain insight into their daily life, and learn about their favorite local wines.
Wine Festivals: Throughout the year, Lyon hosts several wine festivals, offering a great opportunity to taste a wide range of wines and learn about the region's viticultural heritage.
Immersive wine experiences
Our favorite way to immerse yourself in the local wine scene and learn from experts is by participating in a wine-tasting experience. This way you can really get to know your host, ask questions about French wine, taste, eat and enjoy.
Wine tasting in Lyon with a sommelier
Enjoy a selection of 5 fine wines from the Burgundy, Beaujolais and Rhone regions that, paired with delicious local cheeses and charcuterie for the perfect harmony between terroir and palate. Your host Cedric will teach you the history and traditions of winemaking, taking you on a gustatory journey.
Learn to make cheese boards and how to pair them with wine in Old Lyon
Love wine and want to take it one step further and learn about wine pairing and making cheese boards?
In a traditional cheese shop in Old Lyon, Charlotte offers creative and delicious experiences, where she teaches guests how to prepare a cheese board and how to pair wine with cheese. She will give you the best advice on choosing cheeses, cutting them and customizing your platter. You will be the cheesemonger here! You will then pick out two different wines to pair with the cheeses. Red wine? White wine? Champagne? Indulge and enjoy!
Bordeaux: The World's Wine Capital
Bordeaux, located in southwestern France, is considered the world's wine capital. With its prestigious vineyards, historic châteaux, and stunning landscapes, the wine world of Bordeaux is truly unmatched.
The Médoc region, home to some of the world’s most renowned wines, stretches along the left bank of the Gironde estuary. It produces the bold, structured reds that Bordeaux is famous for.
When visiting, you can explore iconic châteaux such as Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Margaux, and Château Mouton Rothschild, and taste their exceptional wines. These estates open their doors to wine lovers, offering exclusive tours that delve into the intricate art of winemaking and the heritage behind each bottle.
For a truly immersive experience, book a Médoc wine tour, where knowledgeable guides will take you through the region’s legendary vineyards, revealing the secrets behind Bordeaux’s most coveted vintages.
If sweet wines are your passion, a visit to the Sauternes region is a must. Nestled along the Garonne river, Sauternes is renowned for its dessert wines, made from grapes affected by noble rot, a fungus which causes the grapes to shrivel, concentrating their sugars, acids, and intensifying the flavors.
Touring the vineyards of Château d'Yquem—arguably the most famous Sauternes producer—gives you a chance to indulge in wines that boast honeyed, tropical notes balanced by refreshing acidity.
Photo of chateau
Bordeaux isn’t just about its famous reds and sweet whites, though. The region also offers a diversity of dry white wines, particularly from the Pessac-Léognan appellation, which are crisp and aromatic, perfect for seafood lovers. Bordeaux’s Crémant—a sparkling wine—offers another surprise for those seeking to explore beyond the usual.
Beyond Lyon and Bordeaux: Wine in the French South
While you’re not short of good wine in Lyon and Bordeaux, we recommend venturing out to explore the diverse and captivating world of French wines in the South of France. Outside the well known cities of Bordeaux and Lyon, you will find intimate wine-tasting experiences with locals.
For example, near the historic city of Avignon, you can sample exquisite wines in a 15th-century cellar and admire stunning works of art.
On the coast of Nice, you can meet Romain for a tasting of local wines, cheeses, and charcuterie, surrounded by the rustic ambiance of a stone wine cellar.
A short drive from Perpignan you can participate in wine and food pairings at the vine growers' table, gaining insights into the passion and craftsmanship behind each bottle.
Planning your wine-focused trip
Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply looking to explore something new and fun, attending an immersive wine experience in France is the way to go. Through Eatwith, you can choose to attend events with others, or book a private event for you and your group
Our hosts are passionate about wine and will share their knowledge and insights with you, giving you that local expertise and insight that will make your experience unforgettable. Check out more experiences in France and beyond on the Eatwith website.
