Essential Winemakers of France

The world's greatest sparkling wine region now has stiff competition from all directions. But where it can't be beat (still) is in its reserve wines, where aging lends depth to impeccable blends.

Burgundy inspires a unique form of madness. Micro-plots of soil are held in near-sacred regard, and the resulting wines can fetch north of a thousand dollars upon release. The following producers, however, represent the spirit of the region well, without bleeding your bank account dry (for the most part, wink-wink).

Thirty years ago, Beaujolais was all about "nouveau." Twenty years ago, it was down in the dumps. And ten years ago, terroir-driven wines of the Cru re-established the region. So what's next for "Bojo?" These producers offer a thrilling glimpse, but for different reasons.

The Northern Rhône stand alone among French wine regions for a variety of reasons: Syrah rules here, as does heroic viticulture on the river's steep slopes. The result: some of the finest, wildest, most age-worthy wines in the world.

First-growth. Second-growth. En primeur. Bordeaux is more elaborate than it needs to be, but every once in a while we come across a terroir-centric producer who reaffirms the greatness of Merlot, the Cabernets and the greatness of their blending.

Wines of sun and wind. Because of this, alcohol levels can get high, and the style of wine we like to feature — subtle, precise and elegant — is often hard to find. But these producers thread that needle perfectly, while offering plenty of hedonistic delight.

Two regions with very different climates and terroir, but one significant commonality: a little more freedom to experiment and break free of AOC bureaucracy. Indeed, these are some of France's most original wines.

Ancient yet dynamic, familiar yet unexpected, Italy arm wrestles France for title of World's Greatest Wine Nation. Who's who in "the Boot" and why do they matter? Check out our Essential Winemakers of Italy list.