Though not the oldest wine region in the world, France is the “Motherland” in terms of the most important styles of wine consumed in the world today. Most New World - and many European - wine regions have used famous French wines as a model for their own styles. France has over 300 Protected Appellations of Origen (AOPs), including Champagne, Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Alsace.  Native grape varieties include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Noir. Most years, France is ranked as the second-largest wine-producing country in the world, just behind Italy.