Are you a wine nerd and planning a trip to Paris? If so, you’re in luck! Paris is a city of wine and there’s no better place to explore and expand your wine horizons. In this article, we’ll be sharing three insider tips to help you discover the best wine experiences in the City of Lights. From cozy wine bars to unique natural wines, and even taking a wine class, we’ve got you covered. So sit back, grab a glass of your favorite French wine, and get ready to discover the magic of Paris, one sip at a time.
Tip #1: Get Cozy with Regional Grape Varieties
To truly appreciate French wine, it’s important to know which grape varieties thrive in which regions. Each wine region in France is like a high school clique, with its own set of grape BFFs. For example, Bourgogne is known for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, while Beaujolais is the cool rebel with Gamay. Knowing these grape cliques will help you fit in at the wine bar and choose the perfect bottle.
Tip #2: Sip on the Trendy Natural Wines
Natural wines are all the rage in Paris, and for good reason. These wines are sustainably made with lower intervention, making them a favorite of environmentally conscious wine lovers. However, it takes a master winemaker to craft a natural wine that won’t disappoint. Be sure to try natural wines from respected producers, like Emmanuel Giboulot and Christian Binner, both of which can be found in bottles shops and wine bars throughout Paris.
To learn more about sustainable and organic producers, check out these two articles.
Castelbarry Cooperative in Montpeyroux: Protecting local ecosystems, communities, and traditions
Tip #3: Tour the Neighborhood Wine Bars
Parisian neighborhoods are like siblings, each with its own quirks and personalities. And just like a sibling, the local wine bars will show you the true colors of the neighborhood. Pick a neighborhood, and taste your way through Paris. It’s like a choose-your-own-adventure book, but with wine. Check out some of our favorite local watering holes in Paris, like the 11eme for natural wines, the 6eme for classic wines, and the 18eme for a mix of both.
To learn more about my top picks for Wine Bars in Paris, check out this article.
5 Amazing Paris Wine Bars that You Must Visit
Bonus Tip: Take a Wine Class or Certification in Paris
As a wine professional and guide in France, I cannot overstate the importance of wine education. For me, the journey of discovery and appreciation of wine has been a lifelong pursuit. I have spent countless hours studying the nuances of French wine, tasting countless vintages, and discussing the winemaking process with experts in the field.
One of the best ways to deepen your understanding of wine is by taking a class or certification in Paris. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned connoisseur, the city offers a range of options to suit your level of experience.
At Oenovino Wine School in Paris, for example, you can enroll in masterclasses or WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) certifications, both of which are offered in English. These courses are taught by esteemed educators with years of experience in the wine industry. In addition, private classes are available for those seeking a more tailored and personalized approach to their wine education.
Not only will taking a wine class or certification expand your knowledge of French wine, but it is also an excellent way to connect with fellow wine lovers and deepen your appreciation of the city’s wine culture.
In conclusion, wine is not just a drink, but a vessel to unlock the wonders of Paris. As you delve deeper into the city’s wine scene, you’ll discover a world of experiences, not just with the wine, but with all that it represents. Whether you’re cozying up to regional grape varieties, sipping on natural wines, or touring the neighborhood wine bars, let wine be your guide to unlocking the magic of Paris, one sip at a time.
