Discover the Northern Rhône Valley’s Wine Wonders
The Northern Rhône Valley in France is a wine lover’s paradise. This region boasts steep hillside vineyards, producing world-class Syrah-based reds and aromatic white wines.
Stretching from Vienne to Valence, the area offers stunning landscapes, rich history, and exceptional gastronomy alongside its renowned wines.
Towns and Villages
Ampuis is the heart of Côte-Rôtie, known for its prestigious red wines. Visit the historic center and enjoy panoramic views of the Rhône River.
Tain-l’Hermitage is home to the famous hill of Hermitage. Explore its charming streets and indulge in wine tastings at local cellars.
Condrieu is renowned for its exquisite Viognier wines. Stroll through the picturesque village and admire the surrounding vineyards.
Wine Producers
E. Guigal in Ampuis offers tours and tastings of their exceptional Côte-Rôtie wines. Book in advance for a chance to visit their historic cellars.
M. Chapoutier in Tain-l’Hermitage provides informative tastings and vineyard tours. Their biodynamic approach adds an interesting dimension to the experience.
Domaine Georges Vernay in Condrieu is a must-visit for Viognier enthusiasts. Their wines showcase the best of this aromatic grape variety.
Accommodations
La Pyramide in Vienne offers luxurious rooms and a Michelin-starred restaurant. It’s an ideal base for exploring the northern part of the region.
Le Pavillon de l’Hermitage in Tain-l’Hermitage provides comfortable rooms with vineyard views. Its central location is perfect for wine tours.
Domaine de Clairefontaine near Condrieu is a charming countryside hotel with a gourmet restaurant. Enjoy the peaceful setting amidst vineyards and orchards.
Dining
La Table du Chef in Ampuis serves innovative local cuisine paired with an extensive wine list. Try their tasting menu for a gastronomic journey through the region.
Le Mangevins in Tain-l’Hermitage is a cozy wine bar offering tapas-style dishes and an impressive selection of local wines by the glass.
Restaurant Michel Chabran in Pont-de-l’Isère holds a Michelin star. Their menu showcases regional products and pairs perfectly with Northern Rhône wines.
Wine Shops & Bars
Le Caveau du Château in Tain-l’Hermitage offers an extensive selection of Northern Rhône wines. Their knowledgeable staff provides excellent recommendations.
La Cave de Tain in Tain-l’Hermitage is a cooperative winery with a well-stocked shop. They offer free tastings and educational wine experiences.
Insider tip: Visit La Maison des Vins in Tain-l’Hermitage for a comprehensive tasting of regional wines in one location.
Other Shops
Valrhona Cité du Chocolat in Tain-l’Hermitage is a must-visit for chocolate lovers. Take a tour, enjoy tastings, and buy high-quality chocolates.
Les Halles de Vienne, an indoor market, showcases local produce and artisanal products. It’s perfect for picnic supplies or edible souvenirs.
Local find: Shop for regional specialties like olive oil and nougat at Le Comptoir de Mathéo in Tournon-sur-Rhône.
Attractions
The Gallo-Roman Museum in Saint-Romain-en-Gal houses impressive mosaics and artifacts. It offers insights into the region’s ancient history.
Take a scenic cable car ride up to the Pipet Hill in Vienne for panoramic views of the Rhône Valley and surrounding vineyards.
Hidden gem: Visit the Château-Musée in Tournon-sur-Rhône for a blend of art, history, and wine culture.
Events
Attend the Marché aux Vins d’Ampuis in January, a prestigious wine fair showcasing Côte-Rôtie and other Northern Rhône wines.
Experience the Jazz à Vienne festival in June-July, combining world-class jazz performances with wine tastings in historic settings.
Local celebration: Join the Fete des Vins et du Jumelage in Tain-l’Hermitage every September for wine tastings, food, and cultural events.
Appellations
Côte-Rôtie produces powerful, elegant Syrah-based reds. Its steep, terraced vineyards create wines with distinctive flavors and aging potential.
Condrieu specializes in aromatic white wines made exclusively from Viognier grapes. These wines are known for their floral notes and rich textures.
Lesser-known gem: Explore Saint-Joseph for excellent value Syrah-based reds and a small production of expressive white wines.
Grape Varieties
The Northern Rhône Valley is renowned for its Syrah grapes. This region produces some of the world’s finest Syrah-based wines.
Other grape varieties include:
- Viognier: Used in white wines, especially in Condrieu
- Marsanne and Roussanne: White varieties often blended in Hermitage and Saint-Joseph
- Grenache and Mourvèdre: Sometimes used in small amounts in red blends
Main Wine Styles
Northern Rhône wines are known for their bold, full-bodied reds and aromatic whites. Key styles include:
- Côte-Rôtie: Elegant, perfumed Syrah, sometimes blended with Viognier
- Hermitage: Powerful, long-lived Syrah-based reds
- Condrieu: Rich, floral white wines made from Viognier
- Saint-Joseph and Crozes-Hermitage: More approachable Syrah-based reds
Food Specialties
The Northern Rhône’s cuisine perfectly complements its wines. Local specialties include:
- Gratin dauphinois: Creamy potato dish
- Caillettes: Herb-filled pork meatballs
- Saint-Marcellin cheese: Soft, creamy cow’s milk cheese
- Bugnes: Light, crispy pastries
Drives & Walks
Explore the stunning landscape with these scenic routes:
- Côte-Rôtie vineyards: Hike through steep terraced vineyards near Ampuis
- Hermitage Hill: Walk up the famous hill for panoramic views of the Rhône Valley
- Ardèche Gorges: Drive along the winding roads to see dramatic limestone cliffs
Itineraries
Plan your Northern Rhône adventure with these suggested itineraries:
3-Day Wine Lover’s Tour
- Day 1: Visit Côte-Rôtie wineries, explore Vienne
- Day 2: Tour Hermitage and Crozes-Hermitage, stay in Tain-l’Hermitage
- Day 3: Explore Condrieu and Saint-Joseph appellations
5-Day Rhône Valley Experience
- Days 1-2: Follow the 3-day wine tour
- Day 3: Visit Valence, explore local markets and restaurants
- Day 4: Day trip to Ardèche Gorges
- Day 5: Relax in Tournon-sur-Rhône, enjoy river views and local cuisine
Getting There & Around
The Northern Rhône Valley is easily accessible by car, train, or plane:
- By car: Take the A7 autoroute from Lyon or Valence
- By train: TGV services connect major cities to Valence TGV station
- By plane: Fly into Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport, then rent a car or take a train
Public transportation is limited, so renting a car is recommended for exploring vineyards and small villages.
Best Time to Visit
The Northern Rhône Valley offers year-round appeal, but certain seasons stand out:
- Spring (April-June): Mild weather, blooming vineyards, fewer crowds
- Fall (September-November): Harvest season, wine festivals, beautiful autumn colors
- Summer (July-August): Warm weather, outdoor activities, busier with tourists
Winter can be chilly but offers cozy wine tastings and off-season rates.
Sustainability Efforts
The Northern Rhône wine industry is increasingly focused on sustainable practices:
- Organic viticulture: Many producers are adopting organic or biodynamic methods
- Water conservation: Drip irrigation and drought-resistant rootstocks are common
- Biodiversity: Planting cover crops and preserving natural habitats between vineyards
Look for certifications like AB (Agriculture Biologique) or Demeter on wine labels.
Language Tips
While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, knowing some French can enhance your experience:
- Wine tasting: “Je voudrais goûter ce vin, s’il vous plaît” (I’d like to taste this wine, please)
- Ordering: “Un verre de vin rouge/blanc” (A glass of red/white wine)
- Cheers: “Santé!” or “À votre santé!” (To your health!)
Download a translation app for on-the-go assistance.
Further Resources
Enhance your Northern Rhône wine knowledge with these resources:
- Books: “The Wines of the Northern Rhône” by Jonathan Livingstone-Learmonth
- Websites: Rhone-wines.com for official appellation information
- Apps: Vivino for wine reviews and ratings
- Local tourist offices: Visit Vienne Condrieu Tourism for up-to-date event listings and travel tips
Join online forums or social media groups dedicated to Rhône wines for insider tips and recommendations.
