The Rhône Valley is a bit like an iconic duo. The Northern Rhône is the sophisticated, demanding rock star. The Southern Rhône is the warm, easy-going friend with a strong character. Together, they form a perfect symphony of flavors and emotions. Ready to explore these two worlds?
Why Choose Rhône Valley Wines?
- Two styles in one: Between the finesse of the Northern Rhône and the generosity of the Southern Rhône, there's a wine for every moment.
- Uniquely rich terroirs: From steep, granite slopes in the north to sunny plateaus and rolled pebbles in the south. Each soil brings its unique touch.
- Star grape varieties: Syrah and Viognier in the north, and the Grenache-Syrah-Mourvèdre (GSM) trio in the south, for single-varietal wines or masterful blends.
- For all budgets: From iconic grand crus to accessible and friendly Côtes du Rhône.
Northern Rhône: Elite Wines
Why is it a rock star?
The Northern Rhône is the realm of aesthetes. Its vineyards cling to steep slopes, demanding hard work. But the result is worth it: wines of rare elegance, designed for aging.
Keys to the style
- Climate: Semi-continental, similar to Burgundy, perfect for slow, controlled maturation.
- Terroir: Granite, schist, and mica soils that produce complex and distinguished wines.
- Grape varieties:
What are the main appellations of the Northern Rhône?
- Côte-Rôtie: Elegant reds with aromas of violet and spices, perfect with a beef tenderloin with porcini mushrooms.
- Hermitage: Along with Côte-Rôtie, the other icon of the Northern Rhône. The appellation offers powerful, complex reds intended for long aging.
- Condrieu: A paradise for Viognier lovers, ideal with scallops.
- Saint-Joseph: A charming appellation offering elegant reds and floral whites, often more accessible than their prestigious neighbors.
- Crozes-Hermitage: The largest appellation in the Northern Rhône, offering accessible yet full-character reds, perfect with duck breast.
Southern Rhône: The Warm Friend
Why is it the ideal buddy?
With its hot summers and the mistral wind caressing the vines, the Southern Rhône produces sunny, generous, and authentic wines. Easy to love, perfect for sharing good moments.
Keys to the style
- Climate: Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers.
- Terroir: Varied soils, ranging from clay and limestone to the famous rolled pebbles of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
- Grape varieties:
Iconic appellations
- Châteauneuf-du-Pape: Rich and powerful, perfect with a Provençal daube stew.
- Gigondas: Structured and generous, ideal with a leg of lamb.
- Tavel: Gastronomic rosé to discover with a Niçoise salad.
- Côtes du Rhône: The quintessential wine for friends, perfect for aperitifs.
- Rasteau: Famous for its naturally sweet wines and powerful reds, Rasteau will be perfect with a leg of lamb, a lentil salad, or, in its sweet version, a chocolate dessert.
Best Vintages of the Rhône Valley
Recent successes:
Northern Rhône: 2015, 2016, 2019, 2020 – intense and well-balanced vintages.
Southern Rhône: 2016, 2017, 2020 – hot years that produced generous and complex wines.
Legendary old vintages: If you're lucky enough to taste a 1990 Hermitage or a 1989 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, you'll reach the pinnacle of Rhône elegance.
Food and Wine Pairings for Every Occasion
Classic Pairing: A Gigondas with coq au vin.
Modern Pairing: A white Crozes-Hermitage with sea bass ceviche.
With World Cuisine: A red Châteauneuf-du-Pape with a lamb tagine with dried fruits.
With Street Food: A Tavel rosé with a gourmet kebab or vegetarian tacos.
FAQ on Rhône Valley Wines
What are the most famous Rhône wines? Côte-Rôtie, Hermitage, and Châteauneuf-du-Pape are essential references.
What are the differences between Northern and Southern Rhône? The north focuses on single-varietal wines (Syrah, Viognier), elegant and age-worthy, while the south favors warm blends.
Can I find good Rhône wines at low prices? Yes, Côtes du Rhône offers exceptional value for money.
What dishes to pair with Rhône wine? A red Hermitage with game, a Châteauneuf-du-Pape with lamb tagine, or a Tavel with a Mediterranean salad.
How long should I keep a Rhône wine? Great northern wines can be kept for up to 20 years, southern ones between 5 and 10 years depending on the appellation.
Explore Our Selection
From aesthetic reds to friendly wines, discover our collection and let yourself be seduced by the authenticity of Rhône Valley wines. Cheers!
