French Vs Italian Wines

Main Difference between French Wines and Italian Wines

Stepan Baghdassarian

Should the French and Italian wine competition be considered a battle? We are not sure about this, but one thing is certain- both countries produce "Magnifique" wine. Let's dig and find out the main differences between the two wine-producing countries.

Both Italy and France create their varietals when it comes to grape growing. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Syrah, and Pinot Noir are some of France's most popular varietals. Meanwhile, Sangiovese, Pinot Grigio, Nebbiolo, and Barbera grapes are popular in Italy.

The fruits, taste, acidity, and tannin content are the four key variations between best French wines and popular Italian wines. Grape types, geography, and climate, as well as manufacturing practices like oak barrel aging which is called after the individual growing location, all affect these distinctions.

French winemakers age their wines in French oak barrels (of course), which is the most conventional method. Italians, on the other hand, are increasingly using American oak in their aging process. This results in a wine with softer tannins and a silkier texture.

One of the most essential growth instruments for grapes is the soil composition of the land. The majority of Italy's grapes are grown in Southern Italy, where the sun shines, the food is wonderful, and the men are pretty good, with over 350 varietals. In contrast to this pleasant climate, the upper areas of France, where most grapes are grown, are generally cooler. The two terra firmas produce grapes of varying stature due to the weather differences.

The distinctions between wines can be minor at times, or they can be quite noticeable and powerful at others. Italian wines are noted for making striking statements and being rather robust. French wines are known for being softer, subtler, and barrel-aged, which is a centuries-old tradition. 

Let’s discuss some real bottles of both countries below. 

Best French Wine :

We will do a bottle of French red and a bottle of white. 

  • Camille Giroud Bourgogne Rouge

Camille Giroud Bourgogne Rouge - Made from Pinot Noir grapes harvested in the Bourgogne area of France, this red wine is delicious. A powerful, dry red wine with a high acidity level. Pair with veal, pizza, and venison for the best results.

  • Domaine Guiberteau Saumur Blanc

Domaine Guiberteau Saumur Blanc — Made from Chenin Blanc grapes cultivated in the Loir Valley, this acidic white wine is delicious. A delicious, thirst-quenching white wine that goes well with a range of foods.

Popular Italian Wine :


Are you excited to learn about the most popular Red and White in Italy?

  • Lambrusco

This slightly bubbly red wine is manufactured exclusively in the Emilia-Romagna area of Italy from any of the 60 Lambrusco grape varietals. Many people outside of Italy dislike it, yet this dry red is delicious when coupled with antipasti and pasta.

  • Vernaccia di San Gimignano

Made from the Vernaccia grape, which grows in the Tuscan hill town of San Gimignano. White meats and seafood go well with a dry white wine with high acidity.

Popular Italian wines and French wines will continue to compete with ardent supporters on both sides, regardless of the company. In terms of volume, Italian wineries produced 50,900 hectoliters in 2016, with France coming in second with 43,500 hectoliters. Approximately 26 gallons like the gallon of milk that you buy. So there's a 192,400 gallon differential in wine production. Despite their vast differences, these two countries produce the greatest amount of wine in the world. 

Though France and Italy will continue their vintner wars on another day, or this battle will involve Spain and USA too? Or may be your country will take the crown. Let's wait and see.