Northern Rhône Valley
In the Northern Rhône, the continental climate and steep, terraced vineyards along the Rhône River are ideal for producing powerful yet elegant red wines made primarily from syrah, the only red grape permitted in this area. Famous appellations such as Côte-Rôtie, Hermitage, and Cornas are known for their age-worthy Syrahs, which offer notes of dark fruit, pepper, and smoky complexity. The Northern Rhône also produces exceptional white wines, particularly from viognier, the best of which come from Condrieu, as well as full-bodied blends of marsanne and roussanne.
Southern Rhône Valley
The Southern Rhône has a Mediterranean climate, with broader, flatter vineyards and a wider range of grape varieties than its northern counterpart. Grenache is the dominant grape, especially in the region's most famous appellation, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where it is often blended with syrah, mourvèdre, and other varieties to create rich, full-bodied wines with flavors of ripe berries, herbs, and spices. The Southern Rhône also produces fresh and fruity Côtes du Rhône wines, as well as structured whites and sweet wines like Muscat de Beaumes-de-Venise.
