Rhone Valley

Rhone Valley, a prestigious wine-producing region, is a sanctuary for the Syrah grape which forms the basis for the region's robust red wines. The northern part of the valley concentrates on Syrah while the southern part leans towards the cultivation of Grenache Noir and Mourvèdre grapes. The region's wines, known for their rustic and hearty character, have been admired globally since the 1980s.
Separated by the Rhone river, the valley is divided into two distinct areas, with the northern region boasting famous names like Côte-Rôtie and Hermitage. The Condrieu area in the north is noted for its production of the unique white grape, Viognier. The smallest AOC area in France, Château-Grillet, is also located here.
The two areas of the Rhone Valley not only signify a geographical divide but also two contrasting wine production styles. Wines in the north are typically single varietal, while in the south, blending of different grapes is more common. The 'Southern' wine Châteauneuf-du-Pape, known for its blend of 13 different red and white grapes, is a prime example of this. With 11 main white and 10 black varieties, the region is a hotbed of grape diversity.
Rhone Valley is recognized as an AOC wine area, featuring 7 main denominations in both the north and the south. The northern area is blessed with more rainfall and a climate more conducive to vine growth, resulting in 90% of the region's best-known wines. The hill of Hermitage, in particular, is famous for its superior quality wines.
Rosé wines from the region are also of note, with their unique blend of white and black grapes. Although a maximum of 20% of other grape varieties is permitted, producers usually use only 5% to impart unique aromas to the wine. The southern region's hotter and brighter climate gives rise to full-bodied and complex wines.
Lastly, the iconic wine of the Rhône Valley, Château Grillet, is celebrated for its impressive aromatic complexity, elitist appeal, and potential for aging.

Region	Rhone Valley
Country	France
Climate and soil	The northern Rhone's climate is primarily continental, characterized by cold winters and hot summers. The region also faces the mistral, a strong Alpine wind, which can potentially damage the tender vineyard shoots or berries on the river-adjacent slopes. The southern Rhone, on the other hand, is dominated by a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. The region is also susceptible to violent storms and the harsh mistral can affect the southern parts of the Rhone as well.
IGT	Coteaux de L'Ardeche, Mediterranée, Pays des Bouches du Rhrone, Pays d'Oc, Principaute d'Orange, Vin de France, Vin Pays d'Ardeche