World History of French Wine | Arnaud Heckmann

In a globalized world where landmarks melt as quickly as icebergs in the sun, France clings to its wine glory like a lifebuoy. If it doesn't have oil, it possesses prestigious vineyards whose red and white outbursts prevent its foreign trade from sinking. Its unique terroirs and know-how allow it to produce nectars that make it a reference in the world of wine. This unquestionable position, the French do not imagine owing it to anything other than their unique talent. And yet... Let's take a closer look at a bottle of Bordeaux. The 75 cl bottle is an English invention, the cork comes from Portugal, the wine it contains comes from American vines planted on terroirs created by the Dutch, and its price is determined by all-powerful journalists, none of whom were born in France. Upon leaving the cellar, it will be shipped around the world to be enjoyed in every corner. Because that has always been its primary vocation. And the French, in all of this? They are left with the pride of holding the pruning shears... The excellence of French wine, more than alchemy, stems mainly from history and geography. It is a journey full of accidents, misunderstandings, and improbable events that has led France, almost despite itself, to its status as the world's leading wine power. What if our vineyards were created only to satisfy the appetites of our neighbors? What if our most prestigious vintages owed everything to nations devoid of vineyards? It may be that, in the matter of wine, we realize that it is not France revolving around the world like a radiant sun, but rather the opposite. It is time to change perspective...