Rhône Valley Wine Tour in Provence from Avignon

Embark on a journey through Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a charming medieval village nestled on a hillside, crowned by the remnants of an ancient castle overlooking the landscape. The village's name, meaning 'pope’s new castle', harks back to the 14th century when Avignon served as the seat of the Roman Catholic Church. It was during this time that Pope Clement V, an avid wine enthusiast, championed the local wine production, leading to the region's wines being famously known as 'Vin du Pape'. The Château des Papes, erected atop the hill in 1317, stands testament to this historic connection.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape's vineyards boast a diverse terroir, characterized by limestone rock, round pebbles, and clay with fine sedimentary sand, nurturing predominantly Grenache vines. In 1936, Châteauneuf-du-Pape becomes the first wine-making AOC of France. A sip of this wine reveals fruity flavors accented by herbal notes of the local "garrigue" herbs like sage, rosemary, and lavender.

From the chateau's vantage point, you'll witness sweeping views of the vineyards, setting the stage for a scenic drive to renowned wine estates such as Château La Nerthe, an 18th-century domain nestled amidst majestic trees, and Domaine de Beaurenard, a family-run estate boasting vines averaging 45 years old.

Venture further north to explore the vineyards of the Rhône Valley, visiting picturesque villages celebrated for their exceptional wines. Gigondas enchants with its quaint charm and world-renowned red wines, while Vacqueyras, an ancient agricultural village, captivates with its authentic atmosphere and acclaimed reds, whites, and rosés.

As you traverse the picturesque Provencal landscape, dotted with perched villages, lavender fields, olive groves, and vineyards, savor the essence of the region. Conclude your journey with a return to your accommodations, cherishing the memories of an unforgettable day steeped in history, culture, and the art of winemaking in Provence.