The Rhone Valley is a major wine-producing region in France, ranking second in total wine production. While the region produces all styles of wine, red wines make up approximately 90% of its production. The Rhone Valley is divided into two parts: the northern and southern regions. These regions differ greatly in terms of grapes, wine philosophies, soil, and microclimates.
The Northern Rhone is a narrow 50-mile stretch of steep, terraced hills that accounts for less than 5% of all Rhone Valley wine production. This area is located between the cooler climate of Burgundy and the warm, sunny Mediterranean-influenced climate of the Southern Rhone. The Northern Rhone’s red and white wines reflect this diversity in their robust flavors, producing some of the area’s most coveted wines in its steepest vineyards.
The Southern Rhone, with its wide open vistas and rolling hills, provides a warmer, milder climate and produces about 95% of the entire Rhone Valley’s wine production. A large variety of grapes are permitted to grow in the different areas of the valley, resulting in many blended wines. These wines are medium-bodied and range in flavor from ripe peach and citrus to herbal and nutty. The Rhone Valley is also known for its dark and fruity red wines, roses, and good sweet wines.
The Rhône Valley is known for its high-quality red, white and rosé wines made from a variety of grape varieties. Here are some of the most well-known Rhône Valley wines and the factors that contribute to their unique characteristics:
Syrah: Known for its full-bodied, rich, and spicy flavors, Syrah wines from the Rhône Valley are known for their high tannins and a wide range of flavors including black pepper, dark fruits, and chocolate. Syrah grapes are grown on the granite, schist and clay soils of the Northern Rhône, which give the wine its unique characteristics.
Grenache: Known for its full-bodied, rich, and spicy flavors, Grenache wines from the Rhône Valley are known for their high alcohol content and a wide range of flavors including black pepper, dark fruits, and chocolate. Grenache grapes are grown on the granite, schist and clay soils of the Southern Rhône, which give the wine its unique characteristics.
Viognier: Known for its full-bodied, rich, and floral flavors, Viognier wines from the Rhône Valley are known for their high acidity and a wide range of flavors including apricot, peach, and floral aromas. Viognier grapes are grown on the granite, schist and clay soils of the Northern Rhône, which give the wine its unique characteristics.
Marsanne and Roussanne: These white grape varieties are known for their full-bodied, rich, and nutty flavors, Marsanne and Roussanne wines from the Rhône Valley are known for their high acidity and a wide range of flavors including apricot, peach, and floral arom
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