Understanding the key terms on a French wine label can provide valuable insights into the wine's origin, grape varieties, quality, and production methods. And since July is French Wine Month, it’s the perfect time to brush up on the basics! Who knows? You may discover a delicious new favorite. Here's a simple guide to help you decode a French wine label.

The label usually displays the name of the wine prominently. It may be the name of the winery, vineyard, or a specific cuvée.

This is an official French certification system that guarantees the wine's origin and quality. AOC indicates that the wine comes from a specific region, adheres to strict production regulations, and possesses certain characteristics unique to that region.

Although not specific to just French wine, the vintage indicates the year the grapes were harvested. It plays an important role in determining a wine's quality and style, as climatic conditions vary from year to year.

Some French wine regions, like Bordeaux or Burgundy, have their own classification systems, ranking vineyards or estates based on quality and prestige. This information may appear on the label, providing additional context about the wine's status.

Unlike some other countries (like the US, for example), French wine labels often don't explicitly mention the grape varieties used. Instead, the assumption is that the wine is made predominantly from the traditional grapes associated with the region. For example, Burgundy wines are typically made from Pinot Noir for red wines and Chardonnay for white wines.

Again, this is not specific to only French wine! The label will state the wine's alcohol by volume (ABV), expressed as a percentage. This information gives you an idea of the wine's strength and body.

The label may include the name and address of the winery or producer responsible for making the wine. This information can be useful for identifying specific estates or understanding the wine's provenance.

Depending on the region, certain terms may appear on the label, providing additional information about the wine. For example, "Grand Cru" or "Premier Cru" in Burgundy denotes the wine's quality and vineyard classification.

Labels may feature additional terms and symbols indicating specific winemaking techniques or characteristics. For instance, "Mis en Bouteille au Château" means the wine was bottled at the estate, highlighting a higher level of quality control.

Once you’re familiar with its label, you can start unraveling the story behind a French wine! It’s also important to note that French wine labels can vary by layout and the amount of information provided. Some labels may provide more detailed information, such as vineyard plots or winemaking practices, while others may offer a more minimalist approach.

The best way to truly appreciate a French wine? Taste it! So, armed with the knowledge from the label, explore the flavors, aromas, and textures that make French wines renowned worldwide. Discover lovely wines from Bordeaux, Burgundy, the Southern Rhone, and more at Gary’s!