Discover Ampuis and Condrieu: Rhône Valley’s Wine Gems
Nestled in the northern Rhône Valley, Ampuis and Condrieu offer wine lovers a taste of France’s most prestigious Syrah and Viognier wines. These charming villages, perched on steep hillsides, boast stunning views and a rich winemaking heritage.
Towns and Villages
Ampuis is the heart of Côte-Rôtie, known for its world-class Syrah wines. The town’s narrow streets and historic buildings reflect its long winemaking tradition.
Condrieu, famous for its aromatic Viognier wines, offers picturesque views of the Rhône River. Its medieval center and surrounding vineyards create a postcard-perfect setting.
Wine Producers
- E. Guigal: A legendary producer in Ampuis, known for its “La-La” wines (La Mouline, La Landonne, La Turque)
- Domaine Georges Vernay: A pioneer in reviving Condrieu’s Viognier, offering exceptional white wines
- Domaine Jamet: Renowned for traditional-style Côte-Rôtie wines
- Yves Cuilleron: Produces excellent Condrieu and Côte-Rôtie wines
Accommodations
Stay in charming wine-themed hotels or cozy bed and breakfasts nestled among the vineyards. Options include:
- La Pyramide: A luxurious Relais & Châteaux property in nearby Vienne
- Le Beau Rivage: A riverside hotel in Condrieu with vineyard views
- Domaine de Clairefontaine: A rustic-chic guesthouse surrounded by vines
Dining
Savor local cuisine paired with exceptional wines at these restaurants:
- Restaurant de l’Hôtel de la Pyramide: Michelin-starred dining in Vienne
- Le Bistrot de Serine: Casual eatery in Ampuis with an extensive wine list
- L’Ô à la Bouche: Modern cuisine with panoramic views in Condrieu
Wine Shops & Bars
Explore these local wine shops and bars to taste and purchase the region’s finest wines:
- La Cave de l’Etrat: A well-stocked wine shop in Ampuis offering a wide selection of Côte-Rôtie and Condrieu wines
- Le Bistrot du Vin: A cozy wine bar in Condrieu with an extensive by-the-glass menu
- Caveau du Château Ampuis: E. Guigal’s tasting room, featuring their renowned wines
Other Shops
Discover local products and souvenirs at these charming shops:
- La Maison des Vins: A gourmet shop in Ampuis selling local cheeses, charcuterie, and wine accessories
- L’Atelier du Chocolat: Artisanal chocolate shop in Condrieu, perfect for wine pairings
- Marché de Condrieu: Weekly market (Fridays) offering fresh produce and local specialties
Attractions
Beyond wine, explore these notable attractions:
- Vienne Roman Theater: Ancient Roman amphitheater hosting summer concerts
- Sentier des Vignes: Scenic hiking trail through the Côte-Rôtie vineyards
- Musée gallo-romain de Saint-Romain-en-Gal: Museum showcasing Roman artifacts and mosaics
Events
Plan your visit around these wine-centric events:
- Marché aux Vins d’Ampuis: Annual wine fair in January featuring local producers
- Fête de la Viognier: Condrieu’s Viognier celebration in July with tastings and music
- Jazz à Vienne: Renowned jazz festival in nearby Vienne during July
Appellations
Familiarize yourself with the region’s key wine appellations:
- Côte-Rôtie AOC: Renowned for powerful, age-worthy Syrah wines
- Condrieu AOC: Exclusively produces aromatic Viognier wines
- Saint-Joseph AOC: Offers both red (Syrah) and white (Marsanne, Roussanne) wines
Grape Varieties
The Ampuis and Condrieu region is renowned for its exceptional Syrah and Viognier grapes. Syrah thrives in the northern Rhône’s climate, producing bold red wines.
Viognier, the star of Condrieu, creates aromatic white wines with peach and apricot notes. Other varieties include Marsanne and Roussanne.
Main Wine Styles
Côte-Rôtie reds, made from Syrah, are known for their elegance and aging potential. These wines often have a touch of Viognier added for aromatics.
Condrieu produces 100% Viognier wines, celebrated for their rich texture and floral bouquet. Saint-Joseph offers both red and white wines, with reds made from Syrah and whites from Marsanne and Roussanne.
Food Specialties
- Rigotte de Condrieu: A small, round goat cheese
- Andouillette: Traditional sausage made from pork
- Gratin Dauphinois: Creamy potato dish
- Caillette: Pork meatballs wrapped in bacon
Local restaurants often pair these dishes with regional wines, enhancing the dining experience.
Drives & Walks
Scenic Drives
The Route des Vins du Rhône offers breathtaking views of terraced vineyards. Drive from Ampuis to Condrieu, stopping at viewpoints and wineries along the way.
Walks
- Pilat Regional Natural Park: Hiking trails with panoramic views
- Sentier des Vignes: A vineyard path connecting Ampuis and Condrieu
Itineraries
Weekend Wine Tasting
Day 1: Visit Côte-Rôtie wineries in Ampuis. Enjoy lunch at a local bistro, then explore the town’s historic center.
Day 2: Head to Condrieu for Viognier tastings. Take a scenic walk through the vineyards, followed by dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Week-long Exploration
Extend your stay to include visits to nearby appellations like Saint-Joseph and Hermitage. Incorporate hiking in Pilat Regional Natural Park and a day trip to Lyon for its culinary scene.
Getting There & Around
The nearest major airport is Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport, about 50 km from Ampuis. Rental cars are recommended for exploring the region.
Public transportation options include:
- Trains from Lyon to Vienne, then buses to Ampuis and Condrieu
- Taxis for shorter trips between wineries
Best Time to Visit
September to October offers ideal weather for wine tourism. Enjoy harvest activities and fall foliage in the vineyards.
Spring (April to June) is pleasant for outdoor activities. Avoid August, when many businesses close for holidays.
Sustainability Efforts
Many wineries in Ampuis and Condrieu practice organic and biodynamic viticulture. Look for certifications like AB (Agriculture Biologique) or Demeter.
Eco-friendly accommodations and farm-to-table restaurants are increasing in popularity. Support local businesses committed to sustainability.
Language Tips
Basic French phrases for wine tasting:
- “Je voudrais goûter ce vin” (I would like to taste this wine)
- “C’est délicieux” (It’s delicious)
- “Avez-vous des vins biologiques?” (Do you have organic wines?)
Most wineries offer tastings in English, but learning a few French words shows respect for local culture.
Further Resources
Useful websites for planning your trip:
Consider purchasing a Rhône Wine Map for detailed vineyard locations and appellations.