wine tour rhone

The Best Wine Tasting & Tours In Rhône

Browse through the best selection of rhône wine tours.

Premium Wine Tasting Châteauneuf du Pape with Art | La Cave de Mathias

La Cave de Mathias is a Unique Place for Dream Tastings in Chateauneuf Du Pape, Rhone

The Prestige Experience at Maison Brotte

Audio-Guided Visit and Tasting of 5 wines at the Brotte Wine Museum

The gourmet experience at Maison Brotte

Discovering the Authentic Taste of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape with Maison Brotte

The Discovery experience at Maison Brotte

Take an educational tour of the winery and wine museum and taste some wines

Wine Tasting at Chateau Fortia

Discover the essence of Châteauneuf-du-Pape at Chateau Fortia's vineyards and historic cellar in the Rhone wine region

Wine Tasting and Tour at Chateau Fortia

A day full of history, wine tasting, and lush landscapes at Chateau Fortia

Wine Tasting and Provencal specialties "Vins Terroirs"

Vineyard walk & wine tasting: immerse in Château Maucoil's terroir, guided tasting, and Provencal specialties, led by passionate experts revealing vintage secrets in the Rhone wine region

Wine Tasting and Provencal Specialties "Vins plaisirs"

Vineyard stroll & wine tasting at Château Maucoil: immerse in Provencal charm, guided by passionate experts, savoring 'Pleasure' wines and local specialties in the Rhône wine region

Wine Blending Workshop

Immerse yourself in the art of crafting your very own wine blend using renowned local grape varieties like Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre.

Prestige Tour at Château Maucoil

During a stroll through the vineyards, let yourself be charmed by the exceptional terroirs of Château Maucoil and immerse yourself in a wine-tasting experience in Rhone

La Table de Maucoil

Culinary excellence at Château Maucoil: La Table de Maucoil by Chef Jean-Claude Altmayer offers refined gastronomy and wine pairing experiences in the Rhone wine region

Introduction to Wine Tasting at Château Maucoil

Château Maucoil wine tasting workshop in the Rhône wine region: educational, fun, and immersive. Explore terroirs and cuvées, unraveling the subtleties of each wine.

Rhône Wine Tours Offered by Local Guides

Discover Rhône's wine scene together with knowledgeable local wine tour guides.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape private tour an intensive fine wine experience

Intensive Vineyard & Fine Wine Experience

Pont du Gard, Roman History, Villeneuve Les Avignon & the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape private tour

Médiévale Cité, La Chartreuse, Fort St André and the Fine Wine of Châteauneuf du Pape

Wines and Chocolate Northern Rhone Valley - Full Day

The Pleasures of Wine and Chocolate

The Roman city of Vienne and Côte Rôtie - Half day

Amazing Wines to Try

Southern Burgundy - Full day

Yummy and Fruity Chardonnay tasting

Northern Rhône Valley: Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage, Cornas

Discover diverse soils and wines, from fruity Crozes-Hermitage to complex Hermitage, paired with gourmet food along the way

Northern Rhône Valley from Côte-Rôtie to Hermitage

Explore Côte-Rôtie and Hermitage vineyards, tasting exceptional wines and enjoying breathtaking views

Northern Rhône Valley Côte-Rôtie, Condrieu, Saint-Joseph - Full Day Tour

A Day Tour of Norther Rhone Valley

Northern Rhône Valley - half day

Experience Côte-Rôtie and Condrieu, highlighting Syrah and Viognier in their native lands, with tastings and scenic views

Northern Rhône cheese & wine

Explore Côte-Rôtie and Pilat Park, meet local cheese producers, and enjoy wine and cheese pairings.

Medieval town of Pérouges and Bugey wine - Half day

Make Time Stop

Lyon and its vineyards - Half Day Tour

Sightseeing and Wines!

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The Rhône Valley has rightfully earned its place among the leading global wine regions. Renowned for its abundant sunshine, this picturesque terrain has been crafting exceptional wines for centuries, tracing its roots back to Roman times. Explore the rich wine history of the Rhône Valley and delight in exquisite wine tours. In the northern part, relish the "spicy and bold" wines with their mellower character, while in the southern regions, savor the warmer, rich flavors. Every culinary experience is a true delight, and we're here to help you make the perfect choice!

Discover a diverse range of wine tours offered by Rhône Valley wineries and local guides below, allowing you to immerse yourself in the essence of this remarkable wine region.

La migliore stagione per visitare la Valle del Rodano

La migliore stagione per visitare la Valle del Rodano dipende dalle tue preferenze.

• Se sei interessato alle attività all'aperto e ai tour del vino, cerca di pianificare il tuo viaggio in Borgogna tra aprile e giugno. Questo periodo è il migliore per il clima mite, i vigneti in fiore e meno affollamento.
• Luglio e agosto sono perfetti per giornate calde e soleggiate, ma durante questo periodo ci si può aspettare più turisti.
• L'autunno (settembre-ottobre) è la stagione ideale per la vendemmia e le degustazioni di vino. I paesaggi durante questo periodo sono eccezionalmente belli.
• L'inverno diventa più tranquillo con meno turisti ed è ideale per esperienze di degustazione di vini al coperto. Questo è anche un buon periodo per esplorare i siti culturali della Valle del Rodano.

Cosa fare nella Valle del Rodano?

Se i tuoi interessi vanno oltre le visite alle cantine, ci sono numerosi luoghi affascinanti da esplorare nella regione della Valle del Rodano.

• Vienne : passeggiare per le stradine e visitare le loro antiche montagne ben conservate renderà il tuo viaggio indimenticabile. È anche conosciuta come il paradiso degli storici.
• Grenoble : è un luogo affascinante con una meravigliosa collezione di musei lungo il fiume.
• Lione : è una città con una vita culturale dinamica e musei con il bellissimo fiume Saona che scorre vicino alla città e, naturalmente, ristoranti eccezionali, dove puoi esplorare la scena gastronomica della città.

Cosa assaggiare nella Valle del Rodano?

La Valle del Rodano produce principalmente vini rossi con note fruttate e sapori speziati.

• Uno dei vini rossi più eleganti e seducenti della Valle del Rodano settentrionale è il Côte Rôtie . Ha complessi aromi di bacche rosse e più scure con qualche nota di pepe, terra, spezie e fiori.
• La Valle del Rodano meridionale è famosa per il Châteauneuf-du-Pape , che ha sapori forti e tannici nella sua giovinezza. Questi sono vini rossi potenti e corposi realizzati con il trio di uve Grenache, Syrah e Mourvèdre.
• Il Condrieu della regione settentrionale è un vino bianco fatto con il vitigno Viognier. Conferiscono texture fresche, vibranti e oleose con accenti sottili di gelsomino o fiori.

Cosa aspettarsi dai tour del vino nella Valle del Rodano?

È sempre divertente venire a sorseggiare un po' di vino nella Valle del Rodano. Durante il tuo tour del vino in Rodano, avrai la possibilità di assaporare alcuni dei migliori vini della regione abbinati sapientemente alla cucina locale. Passeggiare tra i vigneti offre uno sfondo sereno mentre acquisisci conoscenze sull'arte della coltivazione delle uve. La maggior parte dei tour include una visita guidata alla cantina, offrendo uno sguardo al processo di produzione del vino. Queste esperienze enogastronomiche nella Valle del Rodano svelano la bellezza della regione, le tradizioni vinicole secolari e l'esquisita cucina locale.

What travellers says about Rhône Wine Tours

Frequently Asked Questions

The most frequently asked questions by our visitors, are you interested in reading more about rhône.

If you are looking for organized tours, check out our list of guided wine tours .

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14 Best Rhône Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

One of the most prolific wine regions in the world is the Rhône Valley in France. This region oozes with countryside charm and it’s an ideal place for wine lovers to visit to try the best Rhone Valley wineries.

The rolling hillside vineyards and the stunning wine made there are two of the area’s best features, but even if you’re not much of a wine-lover, you’ll absolutely fall in love with the valley’s laid-back ambiance, tantalizing local cuisine, and unique culture.

When it comes to wine tasting in the Rhone Valley, you’ll find that it’s not quite as tourist-centric as other wine regions in France , like Champagne , but it’s still fairly easy to plan a trip there and book winery appointments, especially if you utilize our secret weapon, Rue des Vignerons , which we’ll tell you all about in this post.

Planning your trip to Rhône Valley?

Where to stay in rhône valley:.

• Villa Florentine is a former convent that has been converted into a great hotel with an infinity pool ⇒ Read reviews on  Trip Advisor
• Cour des Loges is a gorgeous mini-palace with a courtyard dining room, spa and rooftop garden. ⇒ Read reviews on  Trip Advisor

FURTHER SOUTH

• Maison Pic , in Valence, has a sleek interior and a top chef, Anne-Sophie Pic, with a three-Michelin-starred restaurant.
• Château de Massillan  is a romantic château close to Bollène with elegantly interiors, a nice covered terrace, big pool and lovely bedrooms.

Best Tours and Experiences in Rhône Valley:

• Northern Rhône Valley Day Tour with Wine Tasting from Lyon  –  Enjoy an intimate tasting experience at two wineries in the Hermitage and Côte-Rôtie appellations, meet the winemakers, and sample a variety of Côtes du Rhône wines. (8 hours)
• Rhône Valley Wine Tasting Private Day Tour from Lyon  – Enjoy wine tasting at local wineries in Côte-Rôtie, Saint-Joseph, and Condrieu, and sample a variety of regional wines including Syrah and Viognier on this private tour. (9 hours)

» Visiting soon? Check out our France travel guide . You might be interested in visiting the gorgeous town of Annecy, France for amazing food, as well as the Savoie wine region and these three jaw-dropping destinations in the French Alps. Here are our guides to the most beautiful cities to visit in France , and the top French wine region s.

Table of Contents

Where Is the Rhône Valley? 

Rhône Valley is an Old World Wine Region located in southeastern France . It’s one of the oldest wine regions dating back more than 2,000 years. It’s also a very large wine-producing region that follows the path of the Rhône River from its source in the Swiss Alps to its confluence with the Saône River in Lyon, and then south through the region of Provence until it empties into the Mediterranean Sea near Marseille.

The region is famous for its vineyards and diverse wine production, with wines like Côtes du Rhône and Châteauneuf-du-Pape being particularly well-known.

Both regions are known for producing distinct types of wine, so we’ll break them down for you below. It’s like a mini-wine class. Be sure to keep this in mind when you get there. It’ll come in handy.

Northern Rhône

The Northern Rhône is best known for its full-bodied red wines made from the Syrah grape. Some of the most prestigious appellations (wine regions) in the Northern Rhône include:

• Côte-Rôtie : Produces some of the most esteemed and typically most expensive wines in the Rhône Valley. These wines are made predominantly from Syrah, often co-fermented with a small amount of Viognier (a white grape variety).
• Hermitage : Known for robust and long-lasting Syrah wines. A white version from Marsanne and Roussanne is also made here.
• Cornas : Produces intense, full-bodied wines made entirely from Syrah.
• Saint-Joseph and Crozes-Hermitage : Both areas produce a more approachable style of Syrah, generally intended for younger drinking.

The Northern Rhône also produces white wines from Marsanne and Roussanne, including in the appellations of Saint-Péray , Hermitage , and Condrieu (which is famous for its rich, aromatic wines made entirely from Viognier).

Southern Rhône

The Southern Rhône produces a wide variety of red, white, and rosé wines. It’s best known for its red blends, which often include a mix of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre grapes (a combination sometimes referred to as GSM). The most famous appellations here include:

• Châteauneuf-du-Pape : The most famous appellation in the Southern Rhône, known for robust, complex red blends.
• Gigondas and Vacqueyras : Known for rich, full-bodied red wines similar in style to those from Châteauneuf-du-Pape but typically at a more approachable price point.
• Côtes du Rhône and Côtes du Rhône Villages : These two appellations cover a large amount of vineyard area and produce a wide range of styles, but are best known for their value-for-money red blends.
• Tavel : An appellation known specifically for its high-quality rosé wines.

In addition to these more famous appellations, there are numerous others in the Rhône Valley, each with its own character and style of wine.

Which Rhône Wine Region Should You Visit?

The Rhône Valley is a large region and the Northern and Southern Rhône are quite distinct from each other, both in terms of geography and the styles of wine produced. They are roughly a two-hour drive apart, which can make it challenging to explore both in a single day trip.  

If you’re interested in tasting a variety of wines and getting a comprehensive understanding of the region, spending a few days in each part of the Rhône Valley would be ideal. That would allow you to fully explore the vineyards, take your time at each winery, and avoid a rushed experience.

If your time is limited, you might want to choose between the Northern and Southern Rhône based on your wine preferences.

• If you particularly enjoy powerful, full-bodied red wines made from Syrah, then the Northern Rhône, with its prestigious appellations like Côte-Rôtie and Hermitage, might be your choice.
• If, on the other hand, you prefer complex red blends or are a fan of Grenache, or you want a broader mix including some rosé and white wines, the Southern Rhône, home to Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Côtes du Rhône, would be a good option.

Wine Tours in Rhone Valley

Self-guided tour.

I usually prefer to do self-guided touring when I visit wine regions because it gives me the greatest flexibility and I actually really like researching and choosing the wineries I want to go to.

While there is a little more work involved because you have to set up all the appointments yourself, there are tools that will help make this super easy. The one I use is called  Rue des Vignerons . It’s a French website that makes booking wine appointments super easy.

You can book online up to 30 minutes before and your appointment is confirmed instantly. This is the website I used to book all of my Champagne tasting appointments.

In our descriptions below, I will give you links directly to Rue des Vignerons for each winery so you can easily book it.

Group/Private Tour

If you don’t want to do your own planning/driving, there are many group and private tours to choose from. These often including up to 8 people and are on a pre-planned route so you don’t have to take care of a single detail.

Below are two tours we recommend:

Top Rhône Valley Wineries To Visit

Clos du calvaire.

Clos du Calvaire winery is set in the breathtaking Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation known for its bold Grenache-based red blends. The family-owned estate covers 81 acres that organically grows 11 grape varieties. 

Soak up this winery’s gorgeous scenery and learn about their extensive history. They’ve been producing their signature red Clos du Calvaire, an ancestral cuvée, since 1923. The remainder of their range includes two red blends, Père Pape (Father Pope) and La Crau de ma Mère (My Mother’s Crau), and a single white, Père Pape Blanc. 

The estate offers guided tours through its verdant vineyards and cellars, with wine tasting in the heart of the vineyard year round. Visiting hours depend on the season, and you can only attend by reservation via their website.

Domaine Galevan

If you’re visiting the quaint commune of Courthézon, Domaine Galevan should be your first stop. Today, this family-owned estate is run by a woman for the first time after nine generations. Join an informative tour to learn about the region and winemaking process, or indulge your taste buds with nine different types of whites and reds. 

Encompassing 138 acres of organic vineyards, you’ll find some of the best Rhône grape varieties here. These include Syrah, Carignan, Mourvedre, and Grenache red variations, while the white types include Bourboulenc, Clairette, and Grenache Blanc. The quality of their wines is sealed with Protected Designations of Origin : Côtes du Rhône, Côtes du Rhône Villages, and Chateauneuf Pope. 

Domaine de Corps de Loup

Venture on an intriguing tour through lush vineyards in the sleepy town of Tupin-et-Semons. Domaine de Corps de Loup offers diverse tastings and some of the most sought-after wines in its region. Flourishing in the wine-making industry for over 25 years, the Daubrée family produces each bottle passionately. 

This estate’s unique, authentic atmosphere, paired with luscious wines, results in a euphoric experience. Their main production of Côte-Rôtie (or roasted slope) since 1995 has put Corps de Loup on the map. In the early 2000s, they expanded into other terroirs , namely Condrieu and Saint Joseph. Visit any time of year for a guided tour or tasting by making an online appointment.    

Ferraton Père & Fils

With a whopping 45 wines to their name, Ferraton Père & Fils is bound to be a hit among connoisseurs. Thanks to an idyllic vineyard, Tain-l’Hermitage, sitting on the banks of the Rhône River, they are able to produce such splendid wines in abundance. Some formidable cuvées worth trying out include Ermitage Le Méal, Hermitage Les Miaux Rouge, and Côte-Rôtie Lieu-dit Montmain. 

You might be tempted to purchase one or two bottles after an enjoyable and relaxing tasting. With up to seven different tastes of reds and whites, you may have a hard time choosing which ones to leave with. Online reservations are required for tastings, and the cellar is open from Tuesday to Saturday. 

Domaine des Peyre

Located in Provence’s Luberon Natural Park, Domaine des Peyre is a key destination for wine tourism. The estate produces AOP Luberon, AOP Ventoux, and IGP Méditerranée wines, and hosts an array of activities including wine tastings, seminars, and weddings.

Once a neglected property with a deteriorating 9th-century chapel and poorly-maintained vines, the estate has been transformed by Patricia Alexandre and Georges Antoun. Today, Domaine des Peyre is a modern and inviting venue.

At the winery, you can do a tasting, an aroma workshop, or a tour and tasting, where you can visit the vineyard, chapel, wine cellar, and newly renovated tasting room.

Domaines Pierre Gaillard

Embrace the most humble and expertly-curated wine tasting and touring experience at the Domaines Pierre Gaillard winery. With a significant emphasis on family, Gaillard promises quality and attention to detail from vine to bottle. 

Pierre Gaillard discovered his love for wine-making at the tender age of twelve while plowing in the vineyards on horseback. Steeped in hard work and passion, these fertile grounds churn out deeply colored wines with strong tannins and fruity aromas. 

The winery is best known for its local produce of Côte Rôtie, Condrieu, Saint-Joseph, and Crozes-Hermitage blends. Wine enthusiasts will have a blast during the tasting with such a vast catalog. 

Château Mourgues du Grès

The family-owned Château Mourgues du Grès invites you to a dreamy escape between vineyards and orchards in the Rhône Valley’s southern subregion. They promise to develop your wine palate with balanced, sharp, and aromatic wines.

Offering white, rosé, and red wines from organic agriculture, you’ll find something here for every taste. Their Capitelles and Fleur d’Eglantine rosé are excellent on a sunny day. 

A tour and tasting generally last about an hour brimming with warm welcomes, history lessons, cave explorations, and delicious wines. These will show you through the cellars and vineyards, followed by a wine tasting, possibly by appointment. 

Château Bois D’Arlène

Vacqueyras terroir of Rhône Valley is the most ideal alternative to Chateauneuf-du-Pape with both offering Grenache-dominant wines. You might pay a little extra for wines here, but the unspoiled landscapes and sumptuous vines of Château Bois D’Arlène are worth the splurge. Boasting enchanting forests, meadows, groves, and a traditional chateau — wineries couldn’t get more captivating than this.  

The estate’s diverse and abundant landscapes are handled with care enduring only sustainable and environmentally-friendly practices. With such gentleness and respect, it’s no wonder wine-making thrives on these lands, curating some of the finest whites and reds.

Psst: Their award-winning L’Orée du Bois is a White Vacqueyras of note and quite the performer in gastronomy. 

Domaine Moulin-Tacussel

Domaine Moulin-Tacussel reaffirms the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation’s claim to fame as the primer for all French wines. Explore the property’s history, discover the best vintages, and learn about wine and food pairings at this enchanting estate. 

The family winner has been operational since 1976, using innovation and tradition to create some of the finest wines from the region. 

Most of their blends consist of 75% to almost 100% Grenache grapes, with other variants like Syrah and Mourvedre making up the rest. Surrounded by a mythical village and magical scenery, it is here where you can get an insightful peek at how wines are made. 

Les Vins de Vienne

Continuing our quest for the best Rhône Valley wineries, Les Vins de Vienne should inevitably pop up. Set in Chavanay, three passionate winemakers and friends joined forces to create some of the best Rhône wines. 

The trio reinvented and revived the very first wines of a historical wine-growing area, Seyssul. These include three wines: Sotanum is their first vintage red produced in 1998, followed by Taburnum, the first white in 2000, and the second red, Heluicum, created in 2004. 

With such a profound history in the winemaking scene, it’s only fair that enthusiasts visit this estate. Visits and tastings are only possible through appointments. 

Domaine Saint-Pierre d’Escarvaillac

Vibrant landscapes and ethereal skies are the backdrops to this celestial winery. Domaine Saint-Pierre d’Escarvaillac boasts 13th-century Romanesque architecture that allows you to travel to ancient times. Not only a feast for the eyes, but their authentic and rich wines also offer a sensational affair. 

Formally “La grange de la Cépède,” the estate was once owned by the Carthusian monastery of Bonpas, allowing monks to blend their wines in the same old vats. Experience rich history and tradition at its finest while learning all about the winemaking that makes this estate a prominent figure in the Avignon region. The winery produces three cuvées of reds, namely La Saint-Pierre, La Huppe, and La Cépède.

Maison Gabriel Meffre

Uncover the secrets behind wine-making, stroll through picture-worthy vineyards, and taste some of the finest blends in a stylish cellar. Maison Gabriel Meffre offers all this and more. This estate has been at the forefront of wine-making since its inception in 1936, being the first Rhône Valley winery to excel regarding social and environmental responsibility. 

After 80 years in the business, it’s still revered for high-quality products, including sumptuous Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Côtes du Rhône wines. Using mostly old vine Grenache, Mourvedre, Syrah, and Cinsault grape varieties, you’ll get an authentic taste of Rhône Valley. Their cellar is open for wine tasting from Mondays to Saturdays.    

Domaine Mayard

Located in the center of the commune of Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Domaine Mayard has 12 hectares of organically grown vines. Arthur and Hugo Mayard, the sixth generation winegrower, have embarked on agroforestry with the aim of bringing more life and biodiversity back to the soil and the plants.

During your visit you can do a guided tasting, a gourmet tasting of wines paried with delicious local products, or do a tour and tasting to visit the estate followed by a guided tasting of their Châteauneuf-Du-Pape and Côte-Du-Rhône cuvées, mainly from old Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault vines.

Domaine de Poulvarel

Domaine de Poulvarel winery is located in Sernhac close to the historical site of the “Pont du Gard”. It’s a family vineyard that has been cultivated with passion for many generations. In 2004, Elisabeth and Pascal decided to create a private cellar on the family lands. The modern building was made with some stones of the “Pont du Gard”. The estate is a HVE (High Environmental Value) certified vineyard.

They have several tasting options for your visit. You can do a free tasting of the vintages of your choice, or you can do one of two tours and tastings – a discovery of the storehouse and cellar, or a walk through the “Perrottes and Cantarelles” tunnels, relics of the Roman aqueduct and the “Pont du Gard”.

Address: 110 Chem. des Lauriers la Soubeyrane, 30210 Sernhac, France Hours: 10am-7pm (break for lunch) closed on Sunday

Where to Stay in Rhone Valley

• Villa Florentine is a former convent that has been converted into a great hotel with an infinity pool
• Cour des Loges is a gorgeous mini-palace with a courtyard dining room, spa and rooftop garden.

Now that you’ve uncovered the top-tier wineries in Rhône, France, the only thing left to do is to brush up on your wine knowledge. Trust us, the world of wineries has its own distinguished language, and there’s nothing worse than feeling clueless as your tour guide babbles on. 

Jokes aside, these are fantastic wineries for your trip to Rhône Valley or if you’re visiting the South of France in general. The most important thing to remember is to book your visit ahead of time, and you’re on your merry way. 

Next up: Discover more of Europe’s most beloved wine regions .

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

Like this post? Why not save it to Pinterest? FOLLOW US  on  Pinterest ,  Instagram ,  Facebook  for more great travel inspiration and tips.

Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

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• Rhône Valley

Mythic wine districts in a landscape bathed in sunshine

As the second largest wine-growing region in France, the Rhône Valley vineyards thrive on both sides of the eponymous river. Some of the most famous wines in the world come from here. The valley also revels in a rich architectural heritage.

From Lyon to the Camargue, passing through the regions of Provence and the Luberon, the Rhône Valley vineyards are divided into two large wine-growing areas. To the north, the Septentrional vineyard clings to the abrupt hillsides in the steep mountain ranges; to the south, the Meridional vineyard enjoys the plains and gentle slopes. The 14 wine routes wind through historic villages in varying landscapes. They take you to the vineyards where the famous wines are made: Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie, Beaumes-de-Venise ... Between fields of lavender and olive trees, share special moments with the winemakers, learn about wine and enjoy the hundreds of wine events . Under the southern sun, discover the Palace of the Popes of Avignon , the Pont du Gard, or the ornate Pont-d’Arc cave. 

The diversity of the wine-growing areas , due to the complex soils and variations of the Mediterranean climate, gives the Rhône Valley wines their unique character . Mostly reds, the wines of the Rhône are divided into three colours . In the north, robust but fine reds and aromatic whites. In the south, more full-bodied reds, expressive whites and round and fruity rosés. Sweet wines complete this large range.

1. See the famous cities of the region: Lyon, Vienne, Valence, Vaison la Romaine, Orange, Avignon, Nîmes, the hillside villages of the Luberon.

2. Take the 14 wine routes by car, on foot, by bike, on horseback, or in the air!

3. Taste the combinations of great wines with local delicacies: olives, truffles and goat’s cheese.

appellations 45 appellations 38 wine districts, or appellations, in the Côtes-du-Rhône: 16 crus, two sweet wines, 18 Côtes-du-Rhône Villages Communaux, Côtes-du-Rhône Villages, Côtes-du-Rhône Régional 7 wine districts, or appellations, in the Rhône Valley: Luberon, Ventoux, Grignan-les-Adhémar, Costières-de-Nîmes, Clairette-de-Bellegarde, Duché-d’Uzès, Côtes-du-Vivarais

dominants grape

Reds : syrah, grenache, mourvèdre

Whites : viognier, roussanne, marsanne, grenache blanc, bourboulenc

Côtes du Rhône and Rhône Valley wines

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Le Caveau du Château: an outstanding venue created by Guigal

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Book & Wine day in Sablet

Kelly McAuliffe

A night at Notre Dame de Cousignac

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The Alexandre restaurant in Garons

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Jeanine's itinerary

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SpeleOenologie®

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Luberon hillside villages in the Rhône Valley

Wine tasting at the Caveau de Grignan

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Domaine Chanoine Rambert

Wine tourism in just one click with Winalist

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Great escapes from Cornas to Saint Péray

Vignes Toquées: A gourmet weekend with costières-de-nîmes wines

Gourmet walk with the Jaugeurs de Lirac

Celebrate the Festival of Avignon in Côtes-du-Rhône!

Côtes du Rhône Marathon

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La Pyramide Patrick Henriroux

Rue des Vignerons: your gateway to the wine regions

An introductory weekend course in wine tasting at the University of Wine

In Vino Very Jazz

Expert advice

American wine expert and tireless ambassador of the Côtes-du-Rhône region

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Rhône wine tours: an epicurean’s dream

Discover one of the most famous wine regions in France and get tips to plan your trip. Find all the information you need about French wine and enjoy! Rhône wine tours begin with a premise to set the pace: the Rhône Valley is the capital of French gastronomy and the birthplace of Côtes du Rhône Grands Crus and Beaujolais wines. With such an introduction, expectations for a memorable epicurean experience are high and yes, the Rhône Valley and the city of Lyon deliver on their promise.

Tours Suggestion in Rhône Valley

Rhône Valley wine tours include tastings of the local wines and cuisine staples and will make for an unforgettable experience in the French wine country, but that is not all you can expect to do when visiting the region. Imagine yourself learning about the centuries-old silk trade traditions of Lyon by exploring its traboules (typical passageways built in the 4th century, originally used by silk manufacturers to transport their products) or enjoying a relaxing boat ride down the Rhône river to discover the city and the vineyards from a different perspective. An original and quite exclusive Rhône wine tour will take you underground, to an old railway tunnel where 80 tons of cheese is aged up to 2 years. Finish your visit off with a tasting of cheese and wines and come back up to the surface to discover one of the many mythical bouchons lyonnaises in the city (traditional restaurants that serve local cuisine such as sausages, duck pâté or roast pork).

Exclusive Rhône Valley wine tours: discover the birthplace of Chateauneuf du Pape

Chateauneuf du Pape is arguably one of the most acclaimed wines in the region. There are dedicated Rhône Valley wine tours to learn about this appellation (AOC in French), explore its famous vineyards and of course, taste some of its most renowned wines. Made of a blend of up to 13 grapes, Chateauneuf du Pape (“the Pope’s New Castle”) is known the world over and it is France’s first AOC to have been recognized, in 1936.

Rhône wine tours in November: celebrate Beaujolais Nouveau!

If you would like to be immersed into the wine traditions of the region, there is no better way than taking part in one of the popular November Rhône wine tours to celebrate the Beaujolais Nouveau wine day right where the main festivities take place. Each year, on the third Thursday of November, 28 million bottles of young Beaujolais Nouveau (literally “new Beaujolais”) hit the shelves all over the world and plenty of gourmet feasts and celebrations are organized in Beaujolais, north of Lyon. If you are in the area around this time of the year, join in for some unforgettable memories of this 100% Gamay fruity red.

Steep hillsides covered in terraced vineyards, rich cultural heritage and some of the most acclaimed wines in the world: come experience everything the region has to offer on one of the many bespoke Rhône Valley wine tours a local travel expert can help you plan and tailor-make to your preferences. You can also book winery visits, accommodation, Michelin-starred or gourmet restaurants and bars directly on winepaths.com

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CHATEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE

The Hill of Hermitage

La Pyramide hotel in Cote Rotie

THE HILL OF HERMITAGE

La pyramide hotel in cote rotie, rhone valley wine tours.

The Heartland for Syrah, Grenache, Viognier, Marsanne & Roussanne

DISCOVER THE BENCHMARKS

Over five days and four nights you’ll be seduced by mythical wines, historical cities and rugged landscapes.  Guided by a Master of Wine, in the lap of luxury, you’ll discover the benchmark wines of the Rhone Valley in France.

We rendezvous in Lyon, the food capital of France.  Moments later you’ll be standing in vineyards perched high over the mighty Rhone river, tasting the best of Cote-Rotie.  Condrieu follows suit, where we taste the rare floral, heady and perfumed Viognier.  An unforgettable gastronomic dinner wraps up the first day.  This is how we roll.

The next morning the blockbuster wines of Hermitage and Cornas await.  You’ll spend two days visiting the most famous Houses in the Northern Rhone.  You then travel south to Avignon, the former papal residence, spending three days immersed in the heady wines of Chateauneuf-du-Pape and so much more.

The hotels are first class and characterful.  You’ll dine like royalty and you’ll have free time to discover the cities and monuments of Lyon and Avignon.  The wines of the Rhone were the world’s most famous and expensive for a reason.

I invite you to join us on this fabulous tour.

JAMES CLUER, MASTER OF WINE

Rhone Valley Tour

October 14th - 18th 2024.

Hosted by Rod Smith MW

$3,995 USD per person

Plus $100 booking administration fee.

Download full itinerary Book this Tour

Click here to learn about our registration, payment, and cancellation policies.

ABOUT THE TOUR & REGION

FOLLOWING THE MIGHTY RHONE

After 2 great days exploring Cote-Rotie, Condrieu, Hermitage and Cornas we drop down to Avignon for 3 days in the south.  Prepare to indulge in copious quantities of Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Gigondas, Tavel and much more.

We are welcomed by the top producers, given privileged access to their cellars and reserve wines, and learn first-hand about grape growing and winemaking from the experts.

You will rest your head at luxurious hotels in Vienne and Avignon and dine at gastronomic restaurants, including two Michelin-starred restaurants.

After great days exploring Cote-Rotie, Condrieu, Hermitage and Cornas we drop down to Avignon for three days in the south.  Prepare to indulge in copious quantities of Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Gigondas, Tavel and much more.

THE TERRACES OF CONDRIEU

BEAUTIFUL CHATEAU

A MEAL TO REMEMBER

The roasted slopes of cote-rotie & terraces of condrieu.

On the first day you’ll explore the steep hillsides of Cote-Rotie and Condrieu.  It defies belief that the Romans would cultivate the vine on such a terroir, and then produce some of the world’s truly classic wines from Syrah and Viognier.

Our welcome dinner tonight will be a gastronomic affair to remember.

The icon wines of Chapoutier

Jaboulet: aspirational wines..

The hills of Hermitage

On the second day we explore the tiny hill of Hermitage, just thirty minutes drive south.  This is the most famous appellation in the northern Rhone.

Wines from here used to be blended into the Bordeaux first growths to “improve” the Bordeaux.  Prepare to get schooled on the world’s benchmark for Syrah, and discover the amazing whites from Marsanne and Roussanne.

After visiting Hermitage we head back to the luxurious hotel for a free evening in the beautiful city of Vienne.

The Historic city of Avignon

AVIGNON & THE SOUTH

On the third day we travel a few hours south to Avignon, a gorgeous Roman city, and the gateway to Provence.

From the comfort of our historic five-star hotel we strike out to learn about the intricacies of Grenache, and the twelve other varieties that are permitted in a Chateauneuf-du-Pape.

The landscape of the south is totally different from the north, and so are the wines.

Powerful, spicy, earthy, meaty, these wines have won legions of fans around the world, making this appellation a household name.

The incredible rocky soils are a site to see, and so are the castles housing wineries.

Chateauneuf-du-Pape

Tavel – the best Rose of France

Tavel - where the only wine permitted is rose.

Tavel – where the only wine permitted is Rose

We visit the icons

Tavel – where the only wine permitted is Rose

TAVEL & BEAUMES DE VENISE

Tavel is the benchmark for the world’s best Ros é .  Deeper, fuller and complex, these are serious wines.

We also explore the lesser known wines from Beaumes de Venise, home to a lighter style of Southern Rhone reds but is most famous for its delicious sweet Muscat wines.

You’ll feel like you’ve seen and tasted the best of the Rhone in five memorable and fun-filled days.

MEET YOUR HOST

Our Luxury Wine Tours in the Rhone are guided by Master of Wine, Rod Smith.

THE RHONE VALLEY

ROD SMITH MW

Your host in the Rhône Valley

ROD is currently Vice-Chair of the Institute of Masters of Wine (MW) and is one of only 416 people to hold the MW, the highest qualification in the field which he passed in 2006. He is a wine educator, marketer, and journalist, based in the South of France. With a client list that includes the world’s wealthiest, most discerning and demanding customers, Rod is the owner/director of the Riviera Wine Academy,

Prior to this, Rod worked for Vins Sans Frontières – the leading wine supplier to the superyacht industry in the South of France, and before that in the UK for a variety of fine wine importers and retailers, as well as being an established WSET educator. Rod has been extensively involved in judging wine competitions in London (Panel Chair, Decanter World Wine Awards, IWC), Shanghai (SIWC, Wine100), Guangzhou (Golden Bottle Awards), Dallas (TexSom), Sofia (Balkans International Wine Challenge), Moscow (Russian Wine Fair), and Sydney (Sydney Royal Wine Show).

Rod has travelled and presented about wine widely including many trips to China and the Far East.

Rod’s personal interests include cycling, running, travel, literature, card magic and film.

UPCOMING RHONE VALLEY WINE TOUR

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Included in the price is four nights’ accommodation split between two luxury hotels, all meals during the tour (except two free evenings) all winery tours, all wines at the visits, local transport for the duration of the tour, and all taxes and gratuities.

Basically everything is included except your flights, your onwards transport from Avignon at the end of the tour, insurance, and any items of a personal nature.

PLANNING TIPS

Before the tour we will send you some useful pre-trip information to help you with your planning. Here you’ll find advice on how to get there, tips on what to wear, details on the hotels, and what you might like to read in advance.

We visit during the nicest times of year, the Spring and the Fall.  The weather is not too hot, is typically dry, and warm.

TESTIMONIALS

Rhone – an unforgettable experience.

“Wow, what a week! The Rhone Valley tour was an amazing and unforgettable experience. The itinerary put together by Fine Vintage was outstanding, with visits to the who’s who of producers in both the Northern and Southern Rhone.

The two hotels we stayed at over the week were first class and I, for one, felt very pampered by the quality of service and those small little touches that make all the difference. The choice of restaurants we ate at was exceptional.

Our host and guide, James Lawther MW, has an unrivaled knowledge of the region, and that brought an added dimension to the week. I would have no hesitation in thoroughly recommending this tour for anyone who has a passion for wine!”

MIKE LEE, KELOWNA, BC

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Tours du Rhone

Custom Designed Wine Tours of the Cotes du Rhone

We offer a unique approach to custom-designed wine and vineyard tours of the legendary Rhone valley. Whether you are a first-time traveler or a seasoned adventurer, you will get a first-hand, up-close, and personal view of the Cotes du Rhone region; its wines, the winemakers, and the Provencal life of the French wine country.

Join me in Living the Dream

DISCOVER the wine-growing region of the Southern Rhone valley, including Chateauneuf-du-Pape; Gigondas; the Cotes du Rhone and Luberon Valley.

ENJOY the Provencal landscape, food, markets, and art, all while tasting the stunning red, crisp rose, and dry, medium, and sweet white wines of the area.

EMBRACE the region with the help of an American winemaker living in France.

An Absolutely Marvelous Day

"I wanted to do something very special for my husband's 73rd birthday. Doug gave us a day we will always remember. We loved our tour! We had an absolutely marvelous day--delectable wines, beautiful landscapes and villages, informative narrative, and great company. This is the perfect way to really appreciate the area and enjoy wine tasting."

Fantastic wine experience

"We were staying in Provence for a week and wanted to be introduced to the local wines. What a great day! It was so delightful to leave the driving and choices to someone else for a change."

Highlight of a 3-Week French Vacation

"Doug was the complete professional guide. He tailored our visit to our interests and sorted through the vastness of potential tastes to give us the overview we sought. His knowledge was invaluable and delivered with class."

Chateauneuf-du-Pape

Hilltowns of the Cotes du Rhone

The Luberon Valley

Crafting Tour Alternatives

Rhône Valley wine tour 2024: Book now

• Decanter Wine Experiences
• wine travel

For the third consecutive year, we are heading back to the Rhône Valley for an unforgettable tour of this iconic wine region with our regional expert, Matt Walls.

You can expect some exciting new wineries on the itinerary and impeccable vintages on the wine lists. There’s no denying, these trips just keep getting better.

‘ For this trip I’ve put together a mix of legendary estates that are standard bearers for their appellations alongside under-the-radar producers who I’m sure will be the stars of tomorrow ,’ says Walls.

Feedback for the last two trips Walls has hosted has been phenomenal, with guests reveling in his expertise and enjoying the taste of some incredible wines, all hand selected for their provenance and enjoyability. 

‘ The selection of estates that Walls chose to visit was great. An excellent mix of well-known names with new discoveries ,’ says recent wine tour guest Amber LeBeau.

If you are looking to book a special wine experience in 2024, take a look at our trip brochure to get a feel for what’s in store. A private boat tour down the Rhône river, complete with an exciting wine flight of special vintages, is just one of the highlights we have in store. 

Here’s everything you need to know: 

Dates : 2nd – 9th of June 2024

Estates : Five new wineries added 

Price : $8,900 (single supplement $1,285).

Deposit : $750

Take a look at the tour brochure here .

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Guided tour and wine tasting Northern Rhône Valley

• Journey in a comfortable air-conditioned Mercedes vehicle
• Commented tastings of around 8/10 wines
• Guidance throughout the journey - Guide at your disposal - Local and specialized guide
• Meeting with members of the wine estate
• Toilets on board
• Statue of Saint Exupéry, Pl. Bellecour, 69002 Lyon, France Right next to the "Café Bellecour". When you are facing the cafe, the statue is on the left in the middle of the trees. The meeting point is at the foot of the Statue of Saint Exupéry (not the one in the center of Place Bellecour).
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Most travelers can participate
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 8 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

• You'll start at Statue of Saint Exupéry Pl. Bellecour, 69002 Lyon, France Right next to the "Café Bellecour". When you are facing the cafe, the statue is on the left in the middle of the trees. The meeting point is at the foot of the Statue of Saint Exupéry (not the one in the center of Place Bellecour). See address & details
• 1 Condrieu Stop: 45 minutes See details
• 2 Chavanay Stop: 75 minutes See details
• 3 Ampuis Stop: 75 minutes See details Pass by Lyon
• You'll return to the starting point

• mattfI336OO 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fabulous tour ! Book this one. It was a amazing day with Justine as our tour guide ! We'd already done a tour of the Rhône Valley last year, and we did it again without hesitation, but this time in the Beaujolais! We can't wait to recommend it! Read more Written April 30, 2024
• Almanac22 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles New insights into Beaujolais Wines Excellent, authentic and informative - I really enjoyed this half day tour. I had limited access to Beaujolais wines in the 70's in Aust - trust me this tour taught me that 'real' Beaujolais wines are much better and considerably different than my earlier experience. Read more Written March 28, 2024
• 686gregb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Justine the queen of the North Rhône A fantastic trip Justine was the ideal guide, very knowledgeable and great company. We all learned a huge amount and each of the tastings were both enjoyable and delicious. Read more Written March 16, 2024
• 604rubenb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles What a wonderful way to spend a day! Our guide Justine was friendly, knowledgeable, and accommodating. Seeing where the wine is produced and learning about the processes made for an enriching experience... and the wine was delicious too. If I am ever back in Lyon, I would book with Justine again to visit another wine region. Read more Written March 5, 2024
• 846graemea 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Knowledgeable and Engaging Justine was a great guide. She is extremely knowledgeable about wine and the region. She was full facts and information and I came away learning a lot. She’s also a very engaging guide. She is personable and makes sure everyone is engaged in the experience, asking what their favourite wine is and offering advice on other things to do in the region. The wineries she chose for us were amazing and the staff at both were genuine and welcoming. Special mention to Corps de Loup which is a very small and charming winery that had that perfect French wine region feel. Read more Written January 16, 2024
• anderst940 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great tour that brought us very close to the wines of southern Beaujolais Great trip around the Beaujolais area. The guide, Justine, was very enthusiastic and knowledgeable about the area and the wine. She also had a good relationship with the local producers, that allowed us get an intimate tour around the fields and production areas, and for a very personal tasting of their wines. Read more Written October 30, 2023
• 161arianal 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Lovely wine country tour Justine was a wonderful guide - very knowledgeable, friendly and chose lovely wineries. The countryside was so beautiful and the winemakers were friendly. Highly recommend! I would go again. Read more Written October 19, 2023
• Paulinesrl92 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing day in the Rhone Valley With my husband, we spent an amazing day in the Rhone Valley ! The landscapes were beautiful, the weather really nice, the food was great and the wines really tasteful! And thanks to our wonderful guide Justine, we learned so many things on the different types of wine in the valley. She was really lovely and interesting ! Thanks again for making this day so perfect! Read more Written September 17, 2023
• L3321EXalexc 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing day in the Rhône Valley wine region Perfect weather and magnificent views!! We spent an amazing day in the Rhône Valley wine region. Justine is a great guide, very passionate. We tasted wines in 3 wineries that she selected, a good combinaison between small and medium size estates. We recommend, for sure, this wine tour!! Read more Written September 15, 2023
• 139ur_aa 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent vine experience Justine, the guide was really nice,has a lot of knowledge about vine. We were here with bussiness partners and they were extremely satissfied with whole experiance and nice landskapes. I really recommend this trip with Justine. Read more Written September 15, 2023
• delphinetatu 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles An amazing guide for a great wine tour ! A wonderful day thanks to our super guide Justine, who had chosen 3 family estates for very enjoyable tastings with commentary! Justine had selected a superb restaurant for lunch. Everything was perfectly organized. Justine is very knowledgeable about oenology and we had a great time with her. I can only recommend this experience! Read more Written September 14, 2023
• mattfI336OO 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fabulous tour ! Book this one. I would highly recommend this half day tour. We had a wonderful tour with Justine ! We went trough beautiful villages and did 2 tastings in local family wineries ! We discovered Beaujolais white and red and learned a lot about the wine region, the way of making the wine ... Read more Written September 10, 2023
• MBF65 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles This was the best day of our vacation! We took the all day tour of the Beaujolais region. Justine was a fabulous guide and made this tour the highlight of our time in Lyon. Knowledgeable, charismatic and patient with all our questions- Justine is the utmost professional - and really a nice person! Definitely cinq étoiles! Read more Written August 11, 2023
• P439MBpopsicle 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Authentic Half day wine tour in Beaujolais Region Lots of info, authentic tour of 2 wineries in South Beaujolais Region. Time for a short photo opportunity in beautiful Oingt village. Wineries were family run and very rustic. Justine was a fantastic guide, very accommodating and with great knowledge of wine. Thank you!! Read more Written April 19, 2023
• Michael O 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A great experience! Justine was knowledgeable and entertaining as a tour guide. We loved the wineries she brought us to!! Altogether, the value of the experience was great! Read more Written April 5, 2023

More to explore in Lyon

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Guided tour and wine tasting Northern Rhône Valley provided by Sur les Sentiers de l'Oenotourisme

t: +33 (0)6 05 80 29 46

e:[email protected]

• The Winemakers
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Home Tours Tastings Winemakers Booking Travel & Accommodation Rhône Region About Us

Six carefully designed tours letting you experience all the Rhône has to offer.

Tour 1: The Big Reds of the South

Tour 2: the cru crew, tour 3: doin' what comes naturally, tour 4: hidden gems of the rhône, tour 5: the great wines of the north, tour 6: best of both worlds.

• 5 Nights, All-Inclusive Wine Holiday - May 2022

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• And Finally...

Châteauneuf-du-Pape village.

South of nougat capital Montelimar the climate becomes noticeably hotter, more Mediterranean. Olive trees and evergreen oak thrive. This is the French home of the sun-loving grenache grape. This is a land of rich, warm red wines that are full of spice and the scents of the local wild herbs.

This tour focuses on three famous full-bodied reds: Châteauneuf-du-Pape, from the vineyards surrounding the ruins of the Pope’s former summer home near Avignon, and the wines of its near neighbours Gigondas and Vacqueyras, two villages nestling under the beautiful Dentelles de Montmirail hills. Grenache forms the backbone of all three "appellations" with individual winemakers deciding on the amount of fruity syrah, meaty mourvedre or supple cinsault they want to use to season the blend. Don’t be surprised, however, if the winemakers want to show off their other wines, whites and rosés included.

Accommodation suggestion - If you want to do the "Big Reds" tour, we'd suggest that you stay in Avignon or one of the surrounding small towns or villages. Go to the Travel & Accommodation page for ideas.

Vignerons-Paysans, "Winemakers - Peasants". It works better in French.

In French wine, “Cru” signifies a place or vineyard that’s at the top of the tree, the best available. In the southern Rhône, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is the most famous cru, but there are a handful of other smaller local wine regions that have been recognised with the same status.

Rasteau, Vinsobres and Beaumes de Venise produce contrasting reds and have the added distinction of having their own specialities: Beaumes de Venise makes reds full of spicy black fruit, but is even better known for its orange-flower scented, heady, sweet muscats, delicious with fruit tarts; Rasteau, as well as producing some of the most powerful reds around, is the only village in the Rhône valley to make a sweet “vin doux” from grenache (amazing with dark chocolate), while Vinsobres’ slightly cooler climate, influenced by the first foothills of the Alps, gives its reds style and finesse and allows it to produce some of the finest dry whites in the southern Rhône. Meanwhile, for lovers of rosé, there is the option of tasting France's most famous - the powerful, dry wine of Tavel. There is truly something here for everybody.

Accommodation suggestion - As with the "Big Reds" tour, it's advisable to stay in or around Avignon if you want to do the "Cru Crew" tour. See Travel & Accommodation .

Cédric, one of our biodynamic winemakers

More and more of France's greatest and most famous estates are farming organically, even biodynamically - think Domaines Leroy and Romanée-Conti in Burgundy, Zind-Humbrecht in Alsace, Pontet-Canet in Bordeaux, Beaucastel here in the Rhône.

This day tour (available both in the southern and the northern Rhône) visits three exciting estates which farm naturally in an effort to make the best possible wine and mixes famous regions and new discoveries. After all, just because you're green, doesn't mean you don't like Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

Accommodation suggestion - As the tour can cover all parts of the Rhône valley, the range of accommodation available is enormous. Go to the Travel & Accommodation page for just a few ideas.

Frederic Raspail turning his Clairette by hand

This tour is all about discovering those harder to find wines from the central Rhône valley that you rarely see outside the region, wines of excellent quality that have character and individuality but lack the marketing clout of Côtes-du-Rhône or the cachet of Côte-Rôtie.

We start in the foothills of the mountains, spectacular scenery that’s the home of Clairette de Die. The Brut version is a superior, "champagne-method" sparkler, and delicious it is too. But it’s the “Tradition” which makes the wines’ reputation locally. The latter is a naturally light wine (typically 7 or 8 degrees alcohol) with a soft sparkle and gorgeous elderflower aromas that marry perfectly with its grapey sweetness.

Next up, the once-famous wines of St Péray. Unusually for the Rhône, St Péray is a white-wine-only village where winemakers grow the local marsanne and roussanne grapes to produce full, flavoursome wines with a distinct richness. Red wine lovers shouldn’t worry, however. Most growers also have vines in the neighbouring red-wine-only village of Cornas, so they always have a bit of both colours on hand.

Finally, if we're to believe many wine books, the vineyards of Brézème don’t even exist. And 30 years ago, they were essentially correct. But this tiny wine region, part of a polyculture of fruit orchards and arable farming, is undergoing a sudden and dramatic regeneration (listings at Michelin-starred restaurants, great reviews from the wine critics included) thanks to half a dozen or so winemakers whose wines are the last gasp of the syrah-based reds and viognier/marsanne-inspired whites of the north. And small is, in this case, definitely beautiful: Etienne Guigal, the founder of the famous winemaking dynasty, once said that if he had not been able to make wine in his home vineyards of Côte-Rôtie his choice would have been to make wine here.

Accommodation suggestions - If you want to discover theses "Hidden Gems" for yourself, your best options are the towns of Valence and Montélimar and in the countryside of the beautiful Drôme valley. Check out the Travel & Accommodation page for suggestions.

The vine-covered hill at Tain l'Hermitage

Starting near Vienne, just south of Lyon, and finishing 70km down river at Valence, we have a roll-call of some of France’s most famous wines – Côte-Rôtie, Condrieu, Hermitage and Crozes-Hermitage, St Joseph and Cornas.

The only red grape here is syrah, but depending on the winemaker and the exact location wines can range from the soft, up-front, red fruit flavous of Crozes to the rugged, dark fruit, animal chewiness of Cornas. It's a fascinating demonstration of what a single grape can achieve.

The whites include the ultimate viognier, Condrieu, the name of both the wine and the village that is the home of the grape, and the marsanne and/or roussanne wines of (Crozes-)Hermitage and St Joseph. These are whites with power and richness, whites made for food, wines that are complex and intriguing.

It's impossible for a single small winemaker to cover all the bases in a series of vineyards some 40+ miles long, but across three estates in three different wine regions we’ll do what we can to taste as many of the classics as possible.

Accommodation suggestion - Most people doing the "Great Wines of the North" tour stay in Lyon, but there are plenty of other options. Go to the Travel & Accommodation page for more ideas.

Accommodation suggestion - Valence is just across the river from Cornas and only a few kilometres south of Hermitage. It also has a number of Michelin-starred restaurants, including one of France's greatest, the 3-starred PIc. A little further north, Tain l'Hermitage sits at the foot of the Hermitage vineyards while Tournon, its neighbour on the opposite bank of the Rhône, is in Saint Joseph (although with arguably the better view of Hermitage!). Further north again, the town of Vienne is just minutes away from Côte-Rôtie and Condrieu. Its most famous restaurant/hotel is La Pyramide (2 Michelin stars), named after the Roman remains just outside its front door.

Please note that we no longer collect from Lyon. But the city is just a short train ride from Vienne where you can be collected from the station.

In the vineyards with a winemaker (Wilfried Pouzoulas, left)

We come to you with some of the best wines of the Rhône Valley

We'd love to be able to take you to Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Côte-Rôtie on the same day but the distance makes it impossible. So we scratched our heads and came up with ways to make the impossible possible, ways by which you could taste the whole Rhône in one sitting. Our first idea was our "at home" tastings, where we come to your holiday accommodation with some of the Rhône's finest wines, artisan cheeses, charcuterie and bread, not to mention glasses, tasting sheets, you name it (follow this link for more details).

But some people want to visit the vineyards too. So here's the deal - if you really want to cover the Rhône in one day and you can't bear to miss out on a winery we'll collect you from your accommodation for a trip to a top estate and then afterwards you'll get to taste some of the other great wines of the Valley at your holiday home. (You'll even get to keep the opened bottles - no half measures here!)

Staying in the Avignon area? Why not combine a visit to Châteauneuf-du-Pape or Gigondas with a tasting at your place of some of the northern Rhône's most famous wines - Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie, Condrieu and more. And if you happen to be staying nearer Valence or Montélimar, you could taste with a winemaker in Cornas or Crozes-Hermitage before coming back to a selection of the south's top "cru". Hey presto, problem solved!

Prices for groups of two to four people start at 400€, so from as little as 100€ per head. That includes the winery visit and the "at home" tasting. Larger groups are also possible, but unfortunately we can't cater for groups staying in Lyon.

5 Nights, All-Inclusive Wine Holiday - May 2022 SOLD OUT

Satisfied guests with winemaker Coralie Goumarre (centre)

Each year Rhône Wine Tours teams up with Rustic Trails to offer a fantastic five night wine holiday. Guests stay at the charming “La Maison Rose" where gourmet four course French meals are served each evening. The house is in the pretty village of Saillans, situated at the foot of the Trois Becs mountain, in the beautiful Drôme valley. There is a large garden and an open air pool.

We arrive in plenty of time for dinner on day one and then spend the next four days touring the whole of the Rhône wine region, which spans from Avignon in the south almost as far as Lyon in the north, visiting all the main wine regions and tasting around 70 different wines along the way. The list of producers we meet changes a little each holiday, but typically the appellations covered include Côte-Rôtie, Condrieu, Seyssuel, St. Joseph, Crozes-Hermitage, Hermitage, St. Péray, Cornas, Côtes-du-Rhône, Clairette-de-Die, Cairanne, Rasteau, Gigondas, Vacqueyras, Beaumes-de-Venise, Lirac, Tavel, Vinsobres, Côteaux des Baronnies and, of course, Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Phew!

But this isn't just a series of tastings - we visit the cellars, go into the vineyards and we meet the people who actually make the delicious wines we taste along the way (and which we enjoy in the evening with dinner!). To enjoy that level of access the group has to be kept small - a maximum of just eight people - so don't delay is all we can say.

The holiday starts on Monday May 2nd 2022 and includes five nights accommodation; four days of touring and winery visits; transfers to and from Saillans (from either Lyon airport or Valence TGV train station); breakfast and four course dinner at La Maison Rose (and, of course, accompanying fine wines); as well as a copious picnic lunch, or a bistro meal on the off chance that it happens to rain. Essentially, the idea is that once you arrive you don't have to spend a cent unless you want to - a bottle or two of something special to take home, perhaps?

If you would be interested in finding out more about the 2022 wine holidays, just e-mail [email protected] .

Wine Fête day in Rasteau

We like to think that our six tours offer something for every wine lover, but if you have any particular ideas in mind please let us know and we’ll do all we can to help you.

Our regular tours are for private groups of up to 4 people, but we’re very happy to help those wanting to arrange tours for larger or corporate groups.

The Practicalities

The tours last a whole day, typically 9.30am-6pm, but exact timings depend upon who we meet and where you are staying. The day includes visits to three different wine estates with a stop for lunch (not included in the price, although we will make the arrangements).

You will be picked up from wherever you are staying and dropped off again when the tour is finished.

If you are staying outside the main Rhône wine region we will try our best to help, but it may be necessary for you to travel to a rendezvous point.

Our regular tours are for up to four people and are priced as follows ( note: the price quoted relates to the group as a whole not per person ).

Prices for bespoke tours, including tours for larger groups and corporate clients, are available upon request. Please contact us at [email protected] for further details.

There may be a supplement if you are staying outside the main vineyard area.

To find out how to book a tour or tasting, go to the Booking page.

And Finally..

…Each of the wineries produces a range of wines so there will be plenty to taste as the day goes on. There is no obligation to spit out wine but should you feel that your head or liver demands it spittoons are always available. Don't worry, the winemakers won't be offended.

Half-Day Private Northern Rhône Wine Tour from Lyon

We offer 24 hr free cancellation on most of our tours, winery visits and hotels. For more detail please see the individual cancellation policies on the tour, winery or hotel page.

Tour Overview

Explore Côte-Rôtie and Condrieu wines and enjoy a wine tasting amongst the vines. To truly understand the origin of the exceptional wines of the Northern Rhône you’ll take a guided tour of a local winery.

Enjoy the intense aromatic Viognier and the fruity and silky taste of Syrah grape of the Northern Côtes du Rhône in their original terroir with this afternoon wine tour from Lyon.

You will begin your wine journey in the village of Ampuis, cradle of Côte-Rôtie AOC and then drive to the village of Condrieu, well known for its white wines. You will see the steep hillsides of one of the oldest vineyard in France. Côte-Rôtie and Condrieu, two wines which tell us the history of their terroir and reveal the personality of their creators.

During a tasting of 4 wines in the middle of the vineyards, you will understand the origin of this exceptional wine.

On the steep hillsides the vineyards have a perfect sun exposition and a very rich and diversified terroir. You will immediately be seduced by the magnificent view over the Rhône Valley! You will then be heading South to the Condrieu wine area.

After visiting a winery, you will realise that the terroir, the grape variety but also the hand of the winemaker contribute to make a unique wine. You will enjoy the intense aromatic Viognier and the fruity and silky taste of Syrah grape of the Northern Côtes du Rhône in their original terroir.

What’s included

• Visit a wine estate
• Wine tasting in the heart of the vineyards
• Transportation
• Food and drink not mentioned

Meeting point

Your centrally located accommodation in Lyon

Cancellation Policy

Fully refundable up to 24 hours before departure.

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• Côte-Rôtie & Condrieu: Shared Tour from Lyon

shared tours

Small groups ( 2~8 ).

• Know before

Meeting point

• Inc. / Exc.
• Explore picturesque terraced vineyards offering breathtaking views of the region.
• Enjoy guided tours through vineyards, learn about winemaking processes
• Experience the rich, robust flavors of Syrah wines

Program & Itinerary

Embark on an unforgettable full-day Rhône Valley wine tour from Lyon, focusing exclusively on the captivating vineyards of the Northern Rhône Valley. Renowned for producing exceptional wines, this region is a haven for wine enthusiasts seeking to explore its renowned appellations and distinctive terroirs.

Your adventure begins as you venture south to the prestigious Côte-Rôtie vineyards, known for their elegant and aromatic red wines. Wander through the meticulously tended vines, admiring the steep hillsides and picturesque views of the Rhône Valley that surround you. Gain insights into the unique characteristics of Côte-Rôtie wines as our knowledgeable guide reveals the secrets behind their esteemed reputation.

At a local winery, indulge in an extraordinary tasting experience, sampling 5 or 6 different wine varieties that showcase the nuanced flavors and complexities of the region. Delight in the distinct profiles of Saint-Joseph, Condrieu, and the legendary Côte-Rôtie AOC wines, appreciating the craftsmanship that goes into creating these exceptional vintages.

After savoring the flavors of the morning, treat your palate to a delectable lunch (at own expense) at a carefully selected local restaurant. Immerse yourself in the gastronomic delights of the region, enjoying dishes that harmoniously pair with the wines you have encountered.

In the afternoon, your wine journey continues as you travel to the legendary vines of Hermitage, a revered appellation known for its powerful red wines. Marvel at the breathtaking views from the Hermitage hill Belvedere, where vineyards cascade down the slopes towards the Rhône River. Learn about the unique terroir that imparts distinctive red fruit and wild flower aromas to Hermitage wines, making them truly exceptional.

Enter a local winery and indulge in a delightful tasting session, experiencing the rich flavors of Côtes du Rhône wine varieties. Savor the complexity and finesse of Hermitage and Crozes-Hermitage AOC wines, discovering firsthand what makes them coveted by wine connoisseurs worldwide. Allow yourself to be transported by the sensory journey offered by these remarkable wines.

Throughout the tour, you'll travel in a comfortable mini van, accompanied by a knowledgeable driver guide who will share insights into the region's wine heritage and answer any questions you may have. Immerse yourself in the rich history, stunning landscapes, and exceptional wines of the Northern Rhône Valley on this comprehensive wine tour.

Book your Rhône Valley wine adventure today and let us guide you through an unforgettable exploration of the renowned appellations and captivating flavors that await in this remarkable wine region. Raise your glass and toast to an unparalleled wine-tasting experience in the Northern Rhône Valley. Cheers!

Pick up at centrally located meeting point in Lyon

Visit & wine tasting in 1st northern rhône-valley winery, free time for lunch (at own expense), visit & wine tasting at 2nd rhône-valley winery, return to lyon and drop off at original departure point.

Know before you book

• Minimum 4 participants for tour to operate
• This is an adult only tour
• Tour available on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays
• Please wear comfortable shoes for this wine tour

Included / excluded

• Transportation
• English speaking driver/guide
• Visit & Wine tastings in 2 wineries
• Personal expenses and insurance
• Meals, drinks for lunch
• Gratuities for the guide

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Srn member links, 10 excellent california rhône wines up to 93 points.

New reviews show off California's diversity of Rhône-style wines, with Grenache, Syrah, Viognier and more from some of the Golden State's top sites

• Chris Cardoso

California's numerous microclimates offer an array of opportunities for wine lovers, with abundant styles and prices to choose from. This is aptly demonstrated in this week's list, which features 10 Golden State bottlings from Sonoma, Santa Barbara County, Mendocino, Paso Robles and beyond, all made using grape varieties associated with California's Rhône-style wines .

A few years ago, Randall Grahm , one of California's original Rhône pioneers, partnered with E.J. Gallo to create The Language of Yes , which taps several Central Coast vineyards. The label's precise and sleekly structured Grenache was made with grapes from the Rancho Réal vineyard in Santa Barbara's Santa Maria Valley subregion, and it shows handsome red fruit and smoked pepper flavors that finish with refined tannins.

This lineup also includes Prospect 772's Black Tie Charlie California 2021, the top scorer, a polished red blend with blackberry and orange notes. Read on to get our score and full tasting for this California Rhône-style wine and nine others!

Tasting Highlights' wine reviews are fresh out of the tasting room, offering a sneak peek of our editors' most recent ratings—including scores and full tasting notes—to WineSpectator.com members.  

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• My Personal Wine List
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• Winery Intel
• Vintage Charts
• About Our Tastings
• Ask Dr. Vinny
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• What Am I Tasting?
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Member Links

Srn member links, 10 excellent california rhône wines up to 93 points.

New reviews show off California's diversity of Rhône-style wines, with Grenache, Syrah, Viognier and more from some of the Golden State's top sites

• Chris Cardoso

California's numerous microclimates offer an array of opportunities for wine lovers, with abundant styles and prices to choose from. This is aptly demonstrated in this week's list, which features 10 Golden State bottlings from Sonoma, Santa Barbara County, Mendocino, Paso Robles and beyond, all made using grape varieties associated with California's Rhône-style wines .

A few years ago, Randall Grahm , one of California's original Rhône pioneers, partnered with E.J. Gallo to create The Language of Yes , which taps several Central Coast vineyards. The label's precise and sleekly structured Grenache was made with grapes from the Rancho Réal vineyard in Santa Barbara's Santa Maria Valley subregion, and it shows handsome red fruit and smoked pepper flavors that finish with refined tannins.

This lineup also includes Prospect 772's Black Tie Charlie California 2021, the top scorer, a polished red blend with blackberry and orange notes. Read on to get our score and full tasting for this California Rhône-style wine and nine others!

Tasting Highlights' wine reviews are fresh out of the tasting room, offering a sneak peek of our editors' most recent ratings—including scores and full tasting notes—to WineSpectator.com members.  

Member-Only Content

Join today and get immediate access to this article, and to our entire database of more than 400,000 wine ratings. It only takes moments—but it will help you drink better all year long.

Already a member? Sign In

Try Winespectator.com Free for 30 Days!

Full access to our database of more than 400,000 wine ratings

Early access to reviews on our editors' favorite just-rated wines

Wine and food pairing tool, chefs' pairing recommendations

Best value wines and winery intel

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• The Best Wine Bars in New York

A (non-exhaustive) guide for every mood and taste.

Last week, I reviewed Penny and Demo . By name, they are each a wine bar , although the cooking is ambitious enough to think of them as wine restaurants . Whatever phrase is preferred, this style has become the dominant genre of restaurant in the city: casual, dark, shareable plates, and lots to drink. In reviewing these two newcomers, it seemed like it would also be a useful exercise to assemble a (non-exhaustive) hit list of the best and most interesting wine bars/restaurants I’ve encountered in my own travels. I’ve tried to account for a variety of moods, tastes, and vintages (the bars’, not the wines).

The promising newcomers : Early days are looking good at With Others in Williamsburg, with Scandi-Japanese interiors and a blackboard menu: Get some lemony crab toast with a glass of Mathieu Apffel’s Savoyard “Avant la Tempête” Jacquere, Alpine zip. The food is less ambitious at the new Whoopsie Daisy in Crown Heights, from the people behind the nearby wine store Fiasco! , but they do have salumi from the excellent upstate producer La Salumina and better-than-the-usual drafts of red, white, and rosé, available by the glass, half-bottle, or liter.

The tried-and-trueables: Recent and recentish arrivals now settled into the landscape include La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels , which is soon expanding to Flatiron ; Place des Fêtes , where on a recent Friday night I was able to sneak in without a reservation for lamb with roti and and a Kool-Aid-pink bottle of light-extraction Syrah from Lolita Sene in the Rhône; Chambers , whose kitchen is now firmly under the control of Jonathan Karis, but whose wine list remains in the award-winning hands of Pascaline Lepeltier; and Gem Wine , which is humming along after the few different iterations of Flynn McGarry’s Gemiverse that preceded it.

The Establishmentarians: I can confirm, after a recent revisit, that the Four Horsemen is still operating at a very high level. An insider whispered to me that it’s worth dropping by for lunch, when chef Nick Curtola plays around with new ideas and smaller-batch ingredients that wouldn’t stretch through a whole dinner service. In midtown, Aldo Sohm Wine Bar is the passion project of Le Bernardin ’s longtime somm (and author of a very good beginner’s guide to wine ) with a living-room vibe and a thoroughly decent duck confit. It gets busy around happy hour, but if you happen to be in the area later — say, post-theater, in what’s otherwise a pretty dead zone for elevated boozing — Sohm’s somms start doing special pours from the cellar at 9 p.m.

Okay, but what if I’m looking for …

“Natural” wine : Try Skin Contact on Orchard Street, a bar with pedigree: Eben Lillie, one of its founders and directors, is also a partner at Chambers Street Wines , one of the city’s best wine shops and a pioneer in biodynamic, organic, and so-called natural wines. (He’s also the son of its founder, David Lillie.) I never leave without a few lacy kerchiefs of Tête de Moine (“monk’s head”), a spiral-sliced cow’s-milk cheese from the Swiss Jura.

Spanish wine: Head to Park Slope’s Bar Vinazo for tapas and Tempranillo (and much else). An all-Spanish by-the-glass list, including some more expensive options dispensed by Coravin (the vacuum-pump system that allows semi-open bottles to stay fresher much longer) — I loved the very Burgundian “Arroyo del Tortolas” from Bernabeleva, just outside Madrid.

Italian wine : Don’t laugh, but I’m going to suggest Eataly ’s flagship Flatiron location. While chaotic (watch out for tourists bumbling toward gelato), the grocery emporium hosts several restaurants and counter bars, each with individual wine lists, pairings, and producer spotlights; try Bar Milano, whose selection covers both up-and-comers like Chiara Condello in Emilia-Romagna and established giants, plus ten Baroli by the glass and by the flight. Bonus points for the Eataly Vino wine shop next door, one of the city’s better selections of Italian wine.

Alsatian wine : A little French, a little German, more than usually good — we should all be drinking more Alsatian wine. Alsace-hailing Michelin chef Gabriel Kreuther has several by the glass at his namesake restaurant, and many more by the bottle.

Austrian wine : The “proper” restaurant Wallsé gets more credit, even after all these years, but Kurt Gutenbrunner’s wine bar next door (formerly called the Upholstery Shop, now simply Wallsé Next Door ) is a good pit stop for a quick schnitzel and Grüner.

German wine : Riesling — the king of German wines — has long had an evangelist in Paul Grieco of Terroir , who offers not only over a dozen by the glass and by the flight, but also a full manifesto on the subject for interested (and maybe slightly terrified) would-be converts.

Greek wine : An often underrated wine region! Perhaps Stafili Wine Cafe , which has locations in Tribeca and the West Village, can change everyone’s mind. You probably know Assyrtiko, the razor-sharp white from Santorini, but do you know Malagouzia, Xinomavro, and Agiorgitiko?

Balkan wine : Another underrated region, and one of special note for the orange-wine fans out there. (Lots of maceration and amphora aging in these parts.) Ruffian is doing its bit to raise awareness: Croatia, Hungary, Slovakia by the glass. Really, who else outside of Ljubljana is offering a three-wine flight of “Wines of Eastern Slovenia”?

South African wine : There is something for everyone at Kaia Wine Bar on the Upper East Side: bottomless brunch, elk carpaccio, and the most extensive by-the-glass South African wine selection I’ve ever seen.

Australian wine : Tip from a former consultant to the Australian wine industry: It’s all by the glass at Sonnyboy , as is good stuff from nearby New Zealand (which isn’t all lawn-grassy Sauvignon Blanc, despite what many would have you believe).

Champagne : Champagne is everywhere, but “Champagne with ambience” is not, which is why I like La Mercerie’s recently opened Guild Bar : a bare handful of seats, a very judicious eye for grower Champagne (rather than the name-brand, you’re-buying-the-label stuff), poured into the most exquisite, handblown Japanese and Austrian artisan glassware you can’t afford (but that the Guild store sells if perchance you can).

Sweet and fortified wine : Eleven Madison Park ’s wine list is justly famous for many reasons, but you rarely see so many sweet and fortified wines by the glass — available at the bar, space permitting, whether or not you’ve ponied up for the $195 bar tasting menu. I’d cruise past the decades-old collectors’ stuff (2000 Chateau d’Yquem, Port and Madeira from the ’50s and ’60s) and treat myself to a 2011 late-harvest Pinot Gris from Alsace or a 30-year-old Chenin from the Loire for $25.

• new york city
• where to drink

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