Côtes du Vivarais

• Grenache Noir: ripe red-berry flavors, warmth; a key player in lush, spice-infused reds.
• Syrah: adds color, tannins, and a peppery kick to red blends; bold and spicy.
• Cinsault/Carignan: brings softness and brightness; often used in pale, dry rosés with notes of strawberries and herbs.
• Grenache Blanc: crisp with citrus notes; often combined with Marsanne for fresh, aromatic whites.
• Marsanne: floral and citrus scents; complements Grenache Blanc in lively white blends.
• Roussanne/Clairette/Viognier: add complexity to whites, enhancing their aromatic profiles with floral touches.

The Côtes du Vivarais enjoys a mix of temperate continental and Mediterranean climates. Summers are long, dry, and breezy, while winters can be cooler with some frost. The region's high plateau offers plenty of sunshine and big temperature swings during the ripening season, enhancing the grapes' complex flavors.

The vineyards, at an average height of 250 meters, rest on Jurassic limestone bedrock. The soils are shallow, rocky, and clay-limestone, allowing good drainage. This karstic landscape, rich in calcium and shaped by underground rivers, adds a distinct mineral taste to the wines. The altitude helps keep the summer heat in check, preserving the wines' freshness and vibrancy. Overall, this special terroir supports the making of wines with a fine balance of warmth and aromatic complexity.

The Côtes du Vivarais region, known for its historic and scenic vineyards, is home to several notable wineries. These producers capture the essence of the area's unique terroir and centuries-old winemaking traditions.

• Local Cooperative: This growers' cooperative produces a large portion of the region's wines, ranging from affordable to mid-range. It provides a diverse selection, showcasing the variety and richness of the local grapes.
• Family Domaines: These small, family-owned estates craft a range of wines, including simple blends for casual enjoyment and more complex, structured varieties. Their dedication to quality and tradition shines through each bottle.

These wineries represent the heart of Côtes du Vivarais, blending innovation with tradition to produce wines that reflect the area's distinctive character and flavors.

The Côtes du Vivarais region is at the forefront of sustainable viticulture, with many vineyards adopting eco-friendly practices to protect their remarkable terroir. Producers are committed to sustainable and organic guidelines, utilizing cover crops and grass between vine rows to prevent erosion. Certifications like Terra Vitis or HVE underscore these efforts, ensuring minimal environmental impact.

Irrigation is carefully managed, with a focus on preserving local water resources and maintaining biodiversity. Energy-efficient methods are increasingly common, as producers seek to reduce their carbon footprint while crafting high-quality wines. This dedication to sustainability not only protects the natural landscape but also enhances the vibrant flavors of the region's signature grape varieties.

Wine tourism in the Côtes du Vivarais offers an immersive experience, blending stunning landscapes with a deep cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the vineyards by car or on foot, taking in the breathtaking views of the Gorges de l’Ardèche and the nearby Aven d’Orgnac cave. The region's well-marked wine routes and cycling trails connect charming villages and picturesque vineyards, enhancing the journey.

At local cooperatives and family-owned domaines, tasting rooms provide guided tours and tastings, allowing visitors to savor the rich flavors of Côtes du Vivarais wines. Seasonal events, such as harvest dinners and village wine fairs, celebrate these wines alongside regional delicacies like goat cheeses, chestnuts, and honey. This vibrant touristic facet underscores the region's dedication to preserving its unique terroir and winemaking traditions, offering a compelling invitation for those eager to explore this storied wine region.