With local transplant Ken Jourdan

“Romancing the Rhône” is a comprehensive wine tour of the Côtes du Rhône wine region in the South of France:

Bordering Provence, you will discover one of the most exciting regions of wine in France. Your  experience starts with an introduction into local production which is rigorously regulated from specific towns to larger regions with the often desired AOC accreditation.   Though a less popular name than Bordeaux, the Côtes du Rhône label is perhaps one of the more diverse regions, with a larger variety of grapes to mix and match than most other wine appelations in France. Your introductory tour needs no qualifications to be enjoyed, only taste buds.  As a wise Frenchmen instructed me soon after my arrival to Gaujac, “Wine is to be judged by your palate and not influenced by the name on the bottle.”

The Grand Cru wines found within the Côtes du Rhône vineyards can be visited year round, but your  Americans in provence tour guide recommends considering fall(September through November) to experience the wine harvest and production: or late spring (Mid April through May) to undergo the first budding and expectation of what the year will have in store.  World famous and renowned Châteauneuf du Pape cellars will be toured after an informative visit to the Brotte Museum where you will learn about the history of Châteauneuf, varieties of grapes and centuries old production methods. Some 16 villages of the area have given their names, known as an appellation, to the prestigious wines of the region, including Lirac, Tavel, Vacqueyras, Gigondas and Beaume du Venises to name a few. From touring to tasting, the palate is vast and sure to offer something original for any preference.

During your week stay we will also visit the local fresh markets starting with our regional gem, Uzes, a small town on the edge of the Languedoc Roussillon region. The market sprawls through the cobblestone streets with bounties of color and scents.  We will follow the footsteps of Romans to the fresh market in Laudun, another quant village located below Camp de Cesar, a Roman ruin that was blessed by Cesar himself.

Our culinary delights at the Rhône Retreat will be prepared by local Chef Jerome Gargallo.  With Chef Jerome’s knowledge and expertise in French cuisine, you are sure to be wowed.

Rhône Retreat, a gorgeous property with two separate cottages, a main house, beautiful gardens and a sparkling pool, provides a home base for all Romancing the Rhône participants with all meals included.   It  was built in the early 1800’s and offers a glimpse of life in a picturesque village surrounded by vineyards and historical sites.  There is no better way to experience the provincial way of life than what you will find behind the gates of the Rhone Retreat.

This tour is a combination of wine, food, lifestyle and the art of blending them together. Romancing the Rhône is a lesson in the art in living.

Cost

Contact us today to find the best pricing for you and your traveling partner(s).

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