In France, wines are usually classified by the region, rather than the grape. Since there is such a diverse range of climates in France, each regions usually has its own unique tastes and flavors. Check out all the red areas on this map, and chances are, you've dabbled with wines from one of these regions. I've also outlined some basic flavors that you can expect with each region.

Alsace - Mostly known for white wines, as is the country to its right, Germany
Bordeaux - Dark, gritty, tannic. Mostly known for red wines. These wines are everywhere. Personally, I tend to drink Bordeaux with a meal.
Burgundy - One of the most diverse regions. Look for both red and whites from the many of subregions of Burgundy including Beaujolais (South near Lyon) and Chablis (North near Auxerre).
Champagne - Um, yea, doesn't nead much description. Sparkling wine from anywhere else in the world is just 'sparkling wine'
Longuedoc-Roussilon - Cheap French wine is grown here. Can someone get me the name of a producer here, pronto?
Rhone Valley - Produces both red and white, but I've mostly seen Reds from this region (I also rarely check out the white wine section in stores, so that may be to blame as well) Made from Syrah grapes most commonly, expect the reds to be lighter or medium bodied wines.
Gabe Holmes
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