When talking about France, the first thing that comes to mind is wine. After all, it is known as the world leader in producing fine wine, besides being known as a country of cultured people. Everything about it is enticing, the language, the scenery, and above all, the food and beverages. The French baguette, for instance, is a very popular sandwich base that can be found all over the world, let alone the Chateau Mouton Rothschild, which is their most popular wine yet.
A lot of their wine names are hard to pronounce, but the moment you make out at least one of them, you become a connoisseur in an instant. A person worthy of being labeled as someone with class and culture. Wine has a very big influence in terms of their upbringing, which is why the subject of the drinking age is something of great importance.
What is the legal drinking age in France?
If you’re new and want to look into it, you might have stumbled into 16 and 18. It was originally 16 but was raised to 18 years old back in 2009. Those who are 16 are used to being able to purchase beverages with low-alcohol content, such as cider, beer, mead, and even wine, as long as it falls within 3% ABV. Being a country that’s known to produce the best wines around the world, it’s understandable.
However, this was then changed to 18, and all those who are below it are no longer allowed to purchase or drink alcohol. It is also worth noting that whoever serves and allows a minor to drink alcohol until they are drunk is also committing a serious crime. Further, those caught selling alcohol to minors are subject to a 7500-euro fine.
What is the legal drinking age in France for tourists and foreigners?
Just like the rest of the other countries in Europe, where foreigners and tourists are greatly welcome, France has no specific rules when it comes to the legal drinking age of tourists. As long as you are 18 and are responsible enough, you’re welcome to drink as long as you don’t do it in public, as this is illegal. If you’re caught drunk in public, you can be detained and can pay a fine of up to 150 Euros.
Do you need an ID to drink in France?
Since it is unlawful to sell alcohol to minors in France, valid proof of identification, such as a government-issued ID, is required. Going inside establishments such as pubs and clubs also require those so be sure to always bring one handy at all times. A national ID or a Visa in France can be used as an identity verifier since it has your photo as well as your birth date.
This proof of age is also required whether the purchase is made outside the premises, such as a delivery, so minors and underage have no way of getting away with it.
Legal drinking Age in France with Parents
There are three things to consider when talking about the legal drinking age in France with parents. First, public drinking is not allowed. Second, those who allow minors to drink to the point of being drunk are committing a serious offense, as mentioned above. Lastly, French people are known to consume alcohol with their food.
With these things in mind, the legal drinking age remains at 18 years old; however, a private party or a celebration where food and wine are served might have a different story. After all, it is private so rules can sometimes be mended, just don’t go to the extreme.
Legal Drinking Age in France by Region
The French government is a semi-presidential system where the executive powers are shared between the prime minister and the president. The process of law-making, however, follows what is commonly practiced throughout the world, where parliaments and the president play hand in hand. France increasing its legal drinking age was a result of this process.
There are no clauses, however, that lower the drinking age in some regions of France; hence, it applies to every area and city.
Closing Notes
Being a country that’s known for its culture and finesse, the strict implementation of its legal drinking age is necessary. Maintaining an image that is pleasing to the eyes of the world plays a very important role when it comes to the reputation of the country. Forbidding public drinking and increasing the legal drinking age are both bold moves to prove that France indeed cares about the welfare of its people. France will always be a testament that all wines are not the same.
I am a passionate beer connoisseur with a deep appreciation for the art and science of brewing. With years of experience tasting and evaluating various beers, I love to share my opinions and insights with others and I am always eager to engage in lively discussions about my favorite beverage.
