Vineyards of Diversity and Distinction

In the wine world, the Rhône Valley is synonymous with quality, diversity, and intensity. In the south of France, the Rhône wine region follows the Rhône River and stretches from the bustling city of Lyon in the north to the Mediterranean Sea in the south.

It is a region rich in history, defined by its wine, and adored by enthusiasts and experts worldwide. Its vines have been thriving for over two millennia, making Rhône Valley one of the oldest wine-growing regions in France. Today, we are going to uncork the charm of the Rhône and explore its diverse wines.

Historical Vines

Dating back to the Romans’ time, who planted the first vineyards here around 600 BC, they understood the value of the region’s climate and terroir, with the Mistral wind providing a natural defense against vine diseases, and the diversity of the soils providing excellent conditions for various grape varieties.

The Rhône’s Dual Personality

When talking about the Rhône wine region, it’s important to note that it’s generally divided into two distinct parts: Northern Rhône and Southern Rhône. Each has its own climatic conditions, grape varieties, and unique winemaking traditions, resulting in a multitude of styles and flavors in the wines.

Northern Rhône: The Land of Syrah

The northern section, accounting for only a tenth of the total Rhône Valley wine production, focuses on the noble Syrah variety for its red wines. This is the land of Côte Rotie, Saint-Joseph, and the legendary Hermitage – all producing wines of breathtaking depth, and complexity. For white wines, Marsanne and Roussanne rule supreme, featuring in Saint-Peray and Hermitage Blanc. In Condrieu, with its exotic aromatics, Viognier is the only grape variety allowed.

These wines are known for their aromatic intensity and balance. Red wines typically exhibit aromas of blackberry, plum, and black pepper, with a backbone of tannin that promises excellent aging potential. The white wines, on the other hand, can be rich and full-bodied, often with flavors of stone fruit, almond, and honeysuckle.

Southern Rhône: A Symphony of Grapes

Venture south and the Rhône Valley transforms from a river of Syrah into a sea of Grenache. Here in the Southern Rhône, Grenache is the predominant variety, often blended with other grapes like Syrah, Mourvedre, and up to 13 other permitted varieties in the famed Chateauneuf-du-Pape.

Southern Rhône wines like Gigondas, Vacqueyras, and Cotes du Rhône Villages are appreciated for their bold, ripe fruit flavors, spicy notes, and approachable style. They often offer great value for money, providing a gateway for anyone looking to explore the world of Rhône wines.

The white wines of Southern Rhône, made from Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Ugni Blanc, and a few Northern Rhône standards like Marsanne and Roussanne, are equally worthy of attention. They can be a burst of freshness with flavors of citrus and peach, floral notes, and sometimes a touch of mineral complexity.

Ready to learn more?

Read the follow-up post with a deeper dive into the Rhône Valley

Need an itinerary?

Get inspired with this 5-Day Rhône Wine Tasting Itinerary.