Côtes du Rhône, half-day Wine Tours

The origins of Syrah and Viognier grapes

Welcome to the northernmost part of the Côtes du Rhône area, land of the legendary Syrah and Viognier grapes. Just 25 minutes south of Lyon, you'll be discovering one of the oldest and steepest vineyards in France, with terraces built during Roman times! Here, you'll be visiting two Côte Rôtie appellation estates: Condrieu and Saint-Joseph, both considered to be among the most prestigious appellations among Côtes du Rhône wines.

On the way, you and your guide Olivier, expert in oenology, will be stopping in Vienne at the vantage point of Notre-Dame de Pipet church, to admire the magnificent panoramic view over the Rhône valley, and the Roman amphitheatre built over 2,000 years ago. You'll then be passing through Ampuis, the world capital of Syrah grapes and gateway to the Côte Rôtie vineyard. The minibus will drive you up the dizzying slopes of the Côte Brune and Côte Blonde vineyards, where you'll have no trouble imagining how difficult it must be for people to work on such steep vine-covered hills.

Your tour will then take you on to Condrieu, which has lent its name to the famous eponymous white wine appellation. Here, you'll be told the history of Viognier grapes, and how they very nearly disappeared a few years ago… Then on to an estate, where you'll be taken round the wine making storehouse and get to discover the unique know-how required to produce wine in the northernmost part of the Côtes du Rhône area. You'll also be given the opportunity to taste 5 different wines, among which the following appellations: St-Joseph, Condrieu and/or Côte Rôtie.
And finally, this oenological tour will then take you to a second winegrowing estate for a guided tasting session of 5 different wines: your opportunity to enjoy the aromatic wealth of Viognier grapes and the complex sensuality of Syrah grapes in their original "terroir".

Worth knowing

Please ensure you arrive 10 minutes before the tour commences.
Booking is necessary
Cancellation free of charge 72 hours before schedule activity
We recommend wearing walking shoes and a warm jacket
Children's car seats are compulsory for children under 8. Please request when booking.
This tour is also available in Spanish,on request
Tasting of at least 10 different wines