Understanding French Wine Culture

French wine culture can seem intimidating, but at its heart lie simple principles:

1. Wine is food: Wine is meant to accompany meals, not overwhelm them. The French typically drink less per occasion but more regularly than many other cultures.

2. Moderation is key: The French paradox—low heart disease despite rich food—may partly stem from moderate, regular wine consumption with meals.

3. Context matters: The same wine tastes different on a terrace in Provence than in a New York apartment. The French understand that wine is about the moment as much as the liquid.

4. Everyone's palate is valid: While expertise is respected, the French saying "chacun son goût" (to each their own taste) acknowledges personal preference.