The French countryside is rich with both tradition and terroir , the special character a wine develops when its grapes have grown in a single region for a long time. Among the flourishing varietals in Southern France are Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet, Grenache, and Chardonnay. The classic French countryside red wines tend to be full-bodied and hearty and the classic white wines of the area are aromatic and robust. And the rosé wines? They're crisp, refreshing, and deliciously fruity.