Grapes, Glugs, and Glee: My Top Rhone Valley Wineries
The Rhone Valley is a wine region that has always been celebrated for its exquisite red wines. However, a shift in trends towards white and rosé wines has led to increased recognition for the region’s delightful wines.
In the Northern Rhone Valley, Syrah dominates the red wine scene, while Marsanne, Roussanne, and Viognier share the spotlight in the world of whites. Meanwhile, in the Southern Rhone Valley, the red grape trio of Grenache noir, Syrah, and Mourvèdre takes center stage.
Discovering this region was a fascinating experience, offering not only the classic wines but also the unique vin doux naturel *(VDN), with only two AOC*s, and traditional method sparkling wines.
The Rhone Valley is truly a haven for wine lovers, where every sip unveils a new layer of its rich viticultural heritage. Cheers to discovering the diverse and delightful wines of the Rhone Valley! 🍷
Domaine du Tunnel - St Péray
Nestled in Saint-Péray, is a cool spot in the Northern Rhone wine scene, founded in 1994 by Stéphane Robert. Named for the old railway tunnel in the cellar, this winery blends tradition with a modern vibe. Stéphane’s passion shines through in every bottle. The vineyards, set in the Rhone’s prime terroir, produce exceptional wines. Their white wines, crafted from Marsanne and Roussanne, offer a delightful mix of flavors and aromas. The reds, especially the Cornas, are bold and packed with character. Domaine du Tunnel is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the heart and soul of Rhone wines.
More info: https://www.domaine-du-tunnel.fr/
Domaine Saint Julien de L’Embisque - Bollène
Tucked away in Bollène, Domaine St-Julien de L'Embisque, under the Gaïde family's care, is a 40-hectare estate that captures the spirit of Provence. Picture vineyards, lavender fields, and beehives with breathtaking views of Mont Ventoux. During my three-week internship in their tasting room, I discovered their unique oaky rosé—yes, you read that right! Their wines are excellent, with amazing balance and body, ranging from easy-drinking wines to those you’ll want to age.
More info: https://juliendelembisque.fr/english/
Domaine des Escaravailles - Rasteau
In the highest point in the mountains of Rasteau, this vineyard offers a view so stunning, you’ll be tempted to set up camp and never leave. But wait, there’s more! The wines here are like a box of chocolates—there’s something for everyone: rosés, sparkling rosés, whites, easy -to -drink reds, thick boy reds, and even sweet natural wines. They have wines with different appellations, such as, Rasteau, Cairanne, Roaix, Plan de Dieu and Côtes du Rhône.
Don't freak out if your GPS has a meltdown or you feel like you’ve wandered into Narnia; the main tasting room may be a bit of a trek, but trust me, it’s totally worth it. If you’re pressed for time, swing by their summer spot in Vaison-la-Romaine, Jas Laurine.
Working at their tasting room was a summer well spent. Under the guidance of Madeline, a fourth-generation Ferran, her dad Gilles, and with my trusty sidekicks Max, Camille, Marie and Elodie, I soaked up more wine wisdom than I thought possible. This vineyard is a must-visit, or else you’ll miss out on a grape adventure of a lifetime!
pd1. don’t forget to say hi to Pia for me! 🐕
pd2. ask what TPMG means, you will have a good laugh!
More info: https://www.domaine-escaravailles.com/en/
Domaine des Bernardins - Beaumes- de -Venise
Beaumes-de-Venise, a region famous for its divine vin doux naturel made from muscat à petit grains, the locals have upped their game by crafting some impressive red wines too. Though I haven’t yet strolled through the vineyard (it’s on my bucket list!), I’ve sampled their wines plenty of times—enough to confidently say they’re fantastic. I even met the winemaker once, who shared wisdom about the region and his wines . Beaumes-de-Venise might be known for its sweet wines, but don’t miss out on the reds!
More info: http://www.domaine-des-bernardins.com/en/le-domaine-2/
Domaine de Coyeux - Beaumes- de-Venise
Perched high in the mountains of Beaumes-de-Venise, their spectacular, newly-renovated cellar hiding a treasure trove of VDN*Muscat Beaumes-de-Venise gems. And if that’s not enough, they also make reds that’ll knock your socks off! With views that take your breath away and wines that do the same, it’s like sipping sunshine straight from the bottle—just don’t forget your sunglasses!
More info: http://www.domainedecoyeux.com/en/home/
Domaine de La Palud- Châteauneuf-du-Pape
I stumbled upon this gem at the "Les Printemps des Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2023" festival, where the new vintages are unveiled for tasting. Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the very first French appellation established in 1936, is famous for its red wines made from a blend of 13 varieties and its iconic galets roulés. Naturally, I went hunting for a red to age, only to come home with two white wines instead. When I showed them to my partner, he asked, “Diana, where’s the red?” But once he tasted them, he got why I’d fallen for them.
We ended up visiting the cellar twice and left with three cases each time—yes, my credit card was definitely feeling the strain! Both visits were delightful, as we were warmly welcomed by Marie-Laure, the winemaker, her husband, or their son Nicolas. We had genuine conversations about wine, the region, and the vineyard. It’s moments like these that make my job so rewarding—connecting with people who share your passion for their craft.
Domaine de La Palud is certified organic and produces five cuvées:, Tradition (white and red, both AOC Châteauneuf-du-Pape), AOC Côtes du Rhône (red), Le Verger (white, IGP Vaucluse) and La Clairière (rosé, IGP Vaucluse).
Every bottle from Domaine de La Palud is a testament to their dedication and passion, making each sip a journey through the heart of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
More info: https://www.lesvinsdelapalud.com/
And there you have it—my tour of Rhône Valley wineries that will add some bottles to your cellar! From the bold Syrahs to the sweet natural wines from Rasteau , these region is like your favorite quirky friend: always surprising, never boring. So, next time you’re picking out a bottle, remember you’re choosing a taste of French charm and adventure. Cheers to that! 🍷🎉
*vin doux naturel (VDN) : is a French fortified sweet wine. It’s made by adding brandy to wine before fermentation finishes, preserving natural sugars and creating a rich, sweet flavor. They are perfect as a dessert wine, enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
*AOC: Appellation d’origine contrôlée. Is a French designation that ensures that the wine, comes from a specific region and meets strict quality standards.