Wine and France: A Brief History

France's viticultural history, spanning over two millennia, reveals a dynamic interplay between trade, innovation, and environmental challenges. The earliest evidence of winemaking dates to 425 BCE in Southern France, with Roman influence accelerating its spread. Post-Roman decline saw viticulture shrink, but the rise of cities and trade in the Middle Ages revived it, particularly in Burgundy and Champagne under monastic control. Scientific advancements post-Renaissance, including fermentation understanding and wine classification (e.g., 1855 Bordeaux ranking), marked a turning point. However, the late 19th century brought catastrophic setbacks like phylloxera, forcing France to adapt through strict quality controls. The study highlights how global warming now poses the next major threat to this heritage, underscoring the fragility of France's viticultural legacy.

Estreicher, S. K. (2023). Wine and France: A Brief History. European Review, 31(2), 91–179. https://doi.org/10.1017/s1062798722000370