Wine, a cultural, universal and living heritage

At the heart of human life for centuries, vine and wine have shaped our lands, imbued our traditions, influenced our social practices and invaded our imaginations. Wine is a universal language that transcends borders, centuries and beliefs. A symbol of welcome and sharing, a source of conviviality and pleasure, wine has inspired culinary art in ancient and contemporary civilisations.

It forms an integral part of the French gastronomic dinner, recognised in 2010 by UNESCO as part of humanity’s intangible heritage.

However, wine is not restricted to this single social practice. Conveying as it does values, knowledge and civilisation, it extends far beyond the context of gastronomic cuisine. In recognition of its very special impact, France officially included wine in its cultural, gastronomic and scenic heritage by publishing Act no. 2014-1170 of 13 October 2014 on the future of farming, forestry and food.