Rhône Valley

The Rhône Valley, situated in southeastern France, is a legendary wine region that stretches from Lyon to Avignon, boasting over 30 appellations. Divided into the Northern and Southern Rhône, the area presents a diverse array of wine styles, from the granite slopes of the North to the Mediterranean plains of the South. With a rich history dating back two millennia, the region produces 400 million bottles annually, including iconic wines like Côte-Rôtie and Châteauneuf-du-Pape, solidifying its status as France's second-largest AOC area.

Discover new wines

Take the Quiz

Sustainability in Rhône Valley Winemaking


The Rhône Valley, steeped in viticultural tradition, is embracing sustainability with a vigor that matches its storied past. Thanks to its dry climate and the beneficial Mistral wind, the region naturally reduces disease pressure, allowing many vineyards to minimize chemical use. As of 2020, approximately 13% of vineyards in the Rhône were certified organic, with the Vaucluse and Gard areas leading France in organic farming efforts. This shift is buoyed by the adoption of certifications like HVE and Terra Vitis, although many growers practice organic farming without formal certification. The region's commitment to biodiversity is evident as vineyards implement cover crops, plant hedges, and maintain beehives to support local ecosystems. Facing the challenges posed by climate change, Rhône Valley producers are innovating to protect their future. Strategies include planting drought-resistant grape varieties, moving vines to higher altitudes, and adopting sustainable technologies like solar energy and lighter bottles. Local cooperatives are significant players in this movement, reflecting a collective effort to ensure resilience and sustainability. This approach aligns with growing consumer interest in eco-friendly practices, helping to secure the Rhône Valley's reputation as a leader in sustainable winemaking.

Wine Tourism in Rhône Valley


Wine tourism in the Rhône Valley offers a rich tapestry of experiences that blend the region's historical significance with its diverse viticultural offerings. Travelers can explore both the Northern and Southern Rhône, each with distinct landscapes and wine styles. The journey from Lyon to Avignon is dotted with opportunities to delve into the world of Syrah in Côte-Rôtie or to enjoy the aromatic Viognier of Condrieu. As one moves southward, the vibrant GSM blends and the celebrated Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation unfold, showcasing the unique terroir and Mediterranean climate that define these wines. In addition to vineyard tours and tastings, the Rhône Valley invites visitors to immerse themselves in cultural and historical landmarks, such as the Roman ruins in Orange and the majestic Palais des Papes in Avignon. Many wine estates offer guided tours that reveal the winemaking process, from grape to glass, often highlighting sustainable and organic practices that are increasingly prominent in the region. For those looking to combine their love of wine with travel, river cruises offer a leisurely way to experience the valley's scenic beauty, historic sites, and exceptional wines, all while providing the perfect backdrop for an enriching and memorable journey.

History of Rhône Valley Wine


The Rhône Valley is characterized by a remarkable interplay of terroir and climate, influencing the diverse wine styles of the region. In the Northern Rhône, steep granite hills and a continental climate create ideal conditions for Syrah, promoting the development of wines with distinct spicy and floral aromas. The area’s cooler temperatures also nurture Viognier, Marsanne, and Roussanne, contributing to the region's celebrated white wines. Conversely, the Southern Rhône benefits from a Mediterranean climate and varied soils, such as limestone and sandy clay, perfect for GSM blends. Here, Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre thrive under sunlit skies, producing robust reds with layers of ripe fruit and herbal nuances. This southern diversity supports a vibrant winemaking culture, reflected in both red and white grape varieties.

Try Rhône Valleys

Find Your Perfect Wines

Best Rhône Valley Red


Château De Beaucastel
Chateau De Beaucastel
2009, Grenache Noir, Mourvedre, Syrah, Cinsault, Clairette, Roussanne, Chateauneuf Du Pape
Onetheque
Chateau De Beaucastel
2015, Grenache Noir, Mourvedre, Syrah, Cinsault, Clairette, Roussanne, Chateauneuf-Du-Pape
La Chavaroche
Vignobles Levet
2004, Red Blend, Cote Rotie
Cuvee Maestrale
Aureto
2013, Syrah, Grenache, Ventoux
Châteauneuf-Du-Pape Cuvée Exceptionnelle
Domaine Du Vieux Lazaret
2022, Red Blend, Chateauneuf Du Pape
Tradition
Clos Saint Michel
Grenache 40%, Mourverde 30%, Syrah 30%, Chateauneuf Du Pape
Ventoux Rose Table Wine
La Vieille Ferme
Cinsault, Grenache Noir, Syrah, Ventoux
Telegramme
Famille Brunier
2009, Red Blend, Chateauneuf Du Pape
Cuvee Du Terroir Des Papes
Kirkland Signature
70% Grenache 10% Syrah 10% Mourvedre 10% Cinsault, Chateauneuf Du Pape
Cuvee Du Terroir Des Papes
Kirkland Signature
Grenache, Syrah, Mouvedre, Cinsault, Chateauneuf Du Pape
Château De Beaucastel
Chateau De Beaucastel
2012, Grenache Noir, Mourvedre, Syrah, Cinsault, Clairette, Roussanne, Chateauneuf Du Pape
Quintessence
Chateau Pesquie
2006, Red Blend, Ventoux
Châteauneuf-Du-Pape
Marquis De Sade
2017, Red Blend, Chateauneuf-Du-Pape
Grande Reserve Rhone Wine
Chateau Beauchene
2005, Grenache Noir, Syrah, Rhone
Le Sauvage
Gonnet Gilson
60% Grenache 30% Syrah 5% Mourvedre 5% Cinsault, Vacqueyras
Château De Beaucastel
Chateau De Beaucastel
2021, Grenache Noir, Mourvedre, Syrah, Cinsault, Chateauneuf-Du-Pape
Château De Beaucastel
Chateau De Beaucastel
1993, Grenache Noir, Mourvedre, Syrah, Cinsault, Clairette, Roussanne, Chateauneuf Du Pape
Les Grandes Arenes
Grandes Arenes
Red Blend, Costieres De Nimes
Red Chateauneuf Du Pape
Beaucastel
1985, Grenache Noir, Syrah, Mourvedre, Chateauneuf Du Pape
Halos De Jupiter
Halos De Jupiter
2022, Grenache Noir, Syrah, Mourvedre, Chateauneuf-Du-Pape
Guigal 2016 Brune et Blonde Syrah Côte-Rôtie AOC, France
Guigal
2016, Brune et Blonde Syrah, Côte-Rôtie AOC
Grande Reserve
Chateau Beauchene
2009, Grenache Noir, Syrah, Mourvedre, Chateauneuf Du Pape
Châteauneuf-Du-Pape
Domaine Charvin
2003, Grenache Noir, Syrah, Mourvedre, Chateauneuf-Du-Pape
Excellence
Domaine Du Grapillon D'or
2020, Grenache Noir, Syrah, Gigondas

Best Rhône Valley White


Le Berceau
Bernard Gripa
2001, White Blend, Saint Joseph
Tradition Blanc
Mas De Bressades
2019, White Blend, Costieres De Nimes
Capitelle
Mourgues Du Gres
2016, White Blend, Cotieres De Nimes
Notre Dame de Cousignac
Notre De Cousignac
2004, White Blend, Vivarais
Les Trois Villages
Chateau La Croix Des Pins
2015, White Blend, Ventoux
Saint-Joseph
Domaine Blachon
2013, White Blend, Saint-Joseph
Antique Dilenec Collection
Dilenec Collection
White Blend, Appellation Chateauneuf Du Pape Controlee
Petite Cassagne
Domaine De La Petite Cassagne
2006, White Blend, Costieres De Nimes
Tentation
Jean-Francois Jacouton
2017, Marsanne, Chasselas, Igp Ardeche
Mathilde
Les Producteurs De La Sca Des Grands Vins De Pazac
2022, White Blend, Costières De Nimes
La Griffe
Mont Tauch
2008, White Blend, Lirac
Lou Coucardié
Lou Coucardie
2007, White Blend, Costieres De Nimes
Sainte Cécile
Sainte Cecile
2009, 60% Roussane, 20% Viognier, 20% Grenache, Costieres De Nimes
Capitelle
Chateau Mourgues Du Gres
2020, White Blend, Costieres De Nimes
Viognier
Domaine Barou
2009, 100% Viognier, Vin De Pays Des Collines Rhodaniennes
Châteauneuf-Du-Pape White Wine
Domaine Chante Cigale
2021, Garnacha Blanca, Roussanne, Chateauneuf Du Pape
Sainte Epine
Domaine Michelas Saint Jemms
2015, White Blend, Saint Joseph
Clos Du Roi
Chateau Gigognan
Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Roussanne, Chateauneuf Du Pape
Mineral
Montirius
Bourboulenc, Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, Vacqueyras A.O.C.
Le Pigeonnier
Les Producteurs De La Sca Des Grands Vins De Pazac
2022, White Blend, Costières De Nîmes
Cadot
Lavau
2011, Chardonnay, Rhone
Montplaisir
Domaine Julien Masquin
Grenache Blanc, Bourbelenc, Chateaunuef Du Pape
Les Cedres
Paul Jaboulet Aine
80% Grenache Blanc 20% Clairette, Chateauneuf Du Pape
Font D Hippolythe
Chateau Simian
Roussanne Grenache Blanc, Chateauneuf Du Pape

Want to discover wines for you?

Take our quiz to see a selection of wines tailored to your tastes.

Take the Quiz