France doesn’t just make wine—it lives it. From sun-drenched vineyards to candlelit cellars, the French approach to wine is steeped in history, ritual, and a touch of unashamed indulgence.
Whether you’re planning a trip or dreaming of a life abroad, here are five French wine traditions worth raising a glass to.
More than just pre-dinner drinks, l’apéritif is a cherished daily ritual. Friends gather, nibbles appear (think olives, saucisson, and a few gougères if someone’s showing off), and the wine flows—often a crisp glass of white from the Loire Valley or a refreshing Provence rosé. It’s less about the alcohol and more about slowing down and catching up.
Twice a year, supermarkets and wine merchants across France hold legendary wine fairs, offering everything from bargain bottles to serious vintage investments. Locals queue for their favourites, armed with tasting notes and shopping lists. Even if you’re just browsing, it’s a masterclass in French wine enthusiasm—and a great excuse to visit the grand cellars of Bordeaux or Burgundy.
The French take their toasts seriously—never, ever clink glasses without making eye contact. It’s said to ward off seven years of bad luck (or worse, a disastrous wine harvest). So next time you say “à votre santé,” hold that gaze and toast like a local. Preferably with a fine glass of Champagne or a bold red from the Rhône Valley.
September and October bring the grape harvest and with it, a flurry of festivals. Head to Montmartre in Paris for one of the most famous urban harvests, or explore the villages of Burgundy, Alsace, and Champagne to witness parades, taste the first pressings of the season, and join in celebrations that are as much about community as the year’s vintage.
In France, patience is a virtue—but there’s always room for a little impatience when it comes to wine. Each November, the arrival of Beaujolais Nouveau marks the first wine of the new vintage. It’s fruity, young, and meant to be enjoyed immediately. The French don’t wait for perfection—they celebrate the journey.
So this International Wine Day, why not borrow a little French flair? Whether it’s a leisurely apéro or a bold toast to the future, there’s no better time to say “Santé!”
Next up:
In this updated guide, we’ll take you to all the best food and wine locations to buy property in France in 2025. Whether you’d like a little tipple of Cognac in the spirit’s birthplace, or you fancy foraging for your own delicious black truffles in Sarlat, this guide will tell you all you need to know about the top foodie locations to start your next chapter in France.
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