France is one of the main producers of oak barrels for use in wine. The forests where wood is harvested are mostly located in the center of the country and barrels are named for the primary region the wood comes from , but may also be named for the specific forest the wood is harvested from. Two of the prized regions are Tronçais, a government owned forest north of Moulins and Bertranges in the Nevers region. Many of today's coopers tend to mark their oak "bois de centre" or "Center of France."

French oak contains a looser grain, which may allow for greater evaporation through the staves during ageing. French oak is thought to contain larger amounts of extractable dry wood phenols than American oak, but fewer oak lactones that contribute to aroma. Winemakers generally use French oak for its subtle contributions when making wines in a European style.