The addition of yeast, sugar and chemicals is not required in making French wines, as these elements occur naturally in French grapes. A change to the chemical balance of the grapes takes place during fermentation. This change is what lends the unique body and flavor to French wines. Optimal fermentation is reached when the must is kept at a steady temperature of 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. Smooth processing during this stage also requires proper ventilation. With these conditions in place, the winemakers can lay the foundation to create the French wines that have earned their places among the finest in the world.

The maceration process is the next step in the making of classic French wine. The wine takes on a rich color and body during this step. The color of wine is developed from the peel and natural tannin of the grape. The amount of “body” is determined by the amount of time the wine spends in maceration. Longer maceration will result in a more full-bodied wine, and many of the better French wines will take several weeks of maceration to reach their full potential. The final processing stage is known as raking. All solids are removed, and more than one type of wine can be created from the mixture during this final phase. The pulped that has been “raked” from the wine can be squeezed to create pressed wine, or used in its natural form as free run French wine.

French wine varies from the most common types that you can find virtually everywhere that sells wine, to the rare vintage, which can be very difficult to come across. If you are seeking one of the more rare types of French wine, your best chance would be to use the Internet. Wine lovers agree that wines of exquisite quality have been created by vintners located around the world. However, whether it’s the grapes of France or the careful methods used to process the grapes, few can quite match the unique quality of a fine French wine.