Rhône Valley is located in the southeast of France, starting just south of Lyon and stretching to the Mediterranean coast. The region is divided into North and South Rhône which have their own geography, climate, soil and grape varieties.
In the North Rhône, the climate is cooler and wetter than in the south, especially in winter. This region is home to some of the steepest vineyards in France, where the rugged terrain requires grape growers to harvest by hand. It is also the birthplace of Syrah, a grape that thrives in well-draining granite soils. Syrah from this region offers delicious aromas of chocolate, raspberry, violet, and truffle, making it a favorite among wine enthusiasts worldwide.
In the South Rhône, Grenache is king, demanding real ripeness and aroma concentration. Grenache thrives in the region’s warmer climate and is used to produce a variety of wine styles, including bold reds, fresh rosés, and even fortified wines. The region’s famous “GSM” blends, consisting of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, offer a perfect balance of fruity and spicy notes that are sure to delight any palate.
Whether you prefer the bold flavors of Syrah from the North Rhône or the fruity and spicy blends of Grenache in the South, the Rhône Valley has something for every wine lover.