Viticulture as we know it arrived in Southern France with the Greeks in the 4th century BC. But it was the Romans who really established the vineyards and reputation of the area using the Rhône as their highway through France (and planting a few vineyards along the way).

In the south the grape wines are blends of Mediterranean grape varieties. Grenache Noir, Syrah, Carignan, Mourvedre, and others for the reds. The whites are Grenache blanc, Picpoul, Roussanne, Clairette.

Over the next few weeks we will be highlighting the wonderful different styles from the different appellations (villages) and amazing value southern Rhônes offer.

We are thrilled to have the latest vintages from Domaine Maby in Tavel, where he makes pure wines from Cotes du Rhône, Lirac and Tavel appellations.

In France in the Rhône on Thursday 19 November 2015 they will celebrate the end of harvest… winemakers, wine merchants, brotherhoods, and anyone looking for a fun time will meet in Avignon to celebrate the arrival of the new Côtes du Rhône vintage. A festive, colourful, and epicurean program with live music in a magical setting! This wonderful event is being promoted here.

However, join us next Friday 6th November for a Rhône wine tasting, where we will highlight wines from the various Villages, Cairanne, Plan de Dieu, Vacqueyras, Lirac, Tavel & of course Chateauneuf du Pape. Treat this as our own UK celebration of Rhône!

*map courtesy of winefolly