The Rhône Valley is an expansive region covering nearly 167,112 vineyard acres and stretching from Vienne in the north all the way to the Mediterranean Sea in the south. The spine of the region, geologically, culturally and historically, is the mighty Rhône river. It is wide and serene with a network of tributaries growing off it and feeding the vineyards that flank it in valleys and hills.

“The Rhône is the king of rivers, carrying silt and a sense of history.” 

– Christophe Tassan, Master Sommelier

Due to large geological changes throughout history that deepened the river bed, terraces formed on both banks therefore mixing different key soil types in the hillside terroir. The region’s four main soil types are granite, sandy silica, limestone and clay. Together with the bedrock this composition brings a distinct typicity to the region’s wines while allowing each grape’s character to shine.

Starting in the Northern Rhône slightly cooler temperatures, scenic hilltops and steep terraces will greet you. Here in the northern town of Vienne, the Romans planted vineyards and constructed retaining walls for the terraces—a planting structure and practice still in place today. Thanks to the river the Romans established a flourishing wine trade due to the ability to easily move product.

As the river runs through the central valley and into the Southern Rhône you will come across valleys, hillsides, olive trees and a warm Mediterranean climate tempered by the distinctive Mistral wind. Before the delta of the river, the famous Avignon bridge Pont Saint-Bénézet cuts across the river. In Avignon visit this village to see the Popes’ Palace, a stunning medieval fortress built in the 14th century. The Rhône Valley is historically known as the wines of the popes, as they favored the region’s wines and planted vineyards in this era. 

The red wines shift with the views, from savory Syrahs with notes of pepper and dark fruits to versatile Grenache-dominant wines that combine a berry character with rich earthiness. Across the region, rosé and white wines have thrived and are a growing category. The rosés are known for their refreshing red berry flavors and bright character and the whites, their lively structure and floral notes.