Vineyards line the roads of Burgundy and Bordeaux, the Mediterranean coast, and the length of the River Loire. The Champagne region is famous for the sparkling white wine which takes its name. Although similar wines are produced in other parts of France, and in other countries, it is against the law to call them Champagne. Wine is made throughout the country, and the diversity of climate and soil results in the huge variety of French wines available. Wine is taken with most meals, and is always available at social gatherings.
Local wine goes best with local food, including of course, cheese.
It comes in all shapes, sizes, textures, and smells. Again, each region of France has its own speciality. Cheese can be made from the milk of cows, goats, or sheep, and the flavour and texture depend on several factors, including the time it is given to age, and the ingredients added to it. Camembert is a creamy, mild cheese. Roquefort is one of the many blue cheeses, so-called because of its veins of harmless blue mould.