Côtes du Rhône Live the Experience

Press Pack

MORE INFORMATION ON :

MORE INFORMATION - Press Service - [email protected] - Tel. 04 90 27 24 18 Contents

Page 03

Page 12

Editorial The Cultural Destination Map of the Vineyards History, People and Wines Exploring the 9 Wine Trails

Page 06 Page 14

The Romantic Countryside The Festive Destination Destination Unmissable Events in the Côtes du Rhône Some Côtes du Rhône Favourites

Page 08 Page 16

The Active Destination The Côtes Du Rhône Fly, sail, cycle, walk… Aims and Ambitions

Page 10 Page 24

The Gourmet Destination Contacts Flavours of the Vineyard

2 CÔTES DU RHÔNE WINE TOURISM Editorial Authentic yet enigmatic; festive and full of contrasts; there are many different sides to the côtes du rhône vineyards. this is France’s second largest winegrowing area, brimming with flavours and full of hidden trea- sures. wine estates, museums, undulating footpaths, award-winning villages, breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable cultural icons line the region’s 9 wine trails.

Excellent tourism potential, driven by a vibrant, future- facing industry and illustrated by the measures we take to ensure a warm welcome for all and to protect the landscape and environment (see p. 18-22).

Although just a few hours from Paris, life in the Côtes du Rhône is lived in the slow lane, at a leisurely pace just perfect for discovering the secret nooks and crannies of this major tourist region. Our vineyards are easily accessed from Lyon and Marseilles; you can watch them appear alongside the river as you make your way along the ViaRhôna or Route Nationale 7.

CÔTES DU RHÔNE WINE TOURISM 3 A Programme around the Côtes du Rhône’s 9 Wine Trails

Wine enthusiasts can explore the 9 wine trails designed by Inter Rhône, with an opportunity to experience the different terroirs and lifestyles of the Côtes du Rhône and Côtes du Rhône Villages. From the gateway of the Camargue, through Provence and up towards Lyon, the routes lead visitors across 6 départements, (the Drôme, the Gard, the Ardèche, Vaucluse, the Loire and the Rhône) teaching them about both culture and viticulture along the way. There are cellar visits to be made, as well as a host of other activities. Each of the routes is clearly co- lour-coded and signposted.

Rhône

www.vins-rhone.com is the go-to guide for visitors. Here, you can tailor-make your own wine-trail itinerary according to your own personal interests. All activities involving exploration of the Côtes du Rhône terroirs and vineyards are indexed and sorted for our “oeno-tourists” to peruse at their leisure, depending on mood. They are listed under the headings of: festive, active, gourmet and intriguing”.

Appellation categories

Duché d’Uzès Rhône Valley AOC appellation area

Côtes du Rhône appellation area Area covering 171 communes in 6 diffe- rent departments: Ardèche, Drôme, Gard, Loire, Rhône and Vaucluse Rhône 16 Côtes du Rhône Crus Northern Crus: 8 - Southern Crus: 8

2 Vins Doux Naturels (Natural sweet wines)

Côtes du Rhône Villages Area covering 95 towns including the 18 geographical names mentioned on the label.

Main cities

4 CÔTES DU RHÔNE WINE TOURISM The Northernmost Vineyards From Pont Saint Esprit From Vienne to Valence, Wine Route 1 wends its way to Saint Victor la Coste through the heart of the northernmost vineyards. In the Gard département along the right bank of the All those years ago as the River Rhône shaped the River Rhône, Route 6 follows the valley of the Cèze, Rhône Corridor, it formed a unique set of features, taking in the Côtes du Rhône villages of Chusclan, illustrated by the legendary hill at L’ Hermitage. The Laudun and Saint Gervais. The landscapes feature craggy, rugged landscapes feature vines clinging a combination of garrigue and vineyards, together to its steep slopes, making an impressive, majestic with hilltop villages and some notable historical sight. sites.

Drôme Provençale Around the Dentelles de Montmirail Further south, Route 2 features undulating, full-size Along Route 7, we can admire the vineyard picture-postcard views across vineyards, olive landscape interwoven with picturesque villages groves and lavender fields. Magnificent villages such such as Séguret, listed as one of the most beautiful as Rousset-les-Vignes and Saint-Pantaléon-les- villages in France, and whose elegance is matched Vignes line up to be admired, alongside numerous only by the quality of its unforgettable vineyards. mediaeval châteaux, testament to a rich and varied Fine beds of limestone have been carved into shape past. by erosion, and are now home to a plethora of vineyards, orchards and hillsides, making the perfect backdrop for a delightful wine-tasting session. With The Enclave suitable rock faces both to north and south, the The Enclave is something of an administrative Dentelles de Montmirail are a paradise for climbers anomaly, comprising four communes of the all year round. Vaucluse, but within the Drôme département. It is home to an array of magnificent heritage villages, and offers plenty of opportunity to taste Côtes Around Avignon du Rhône Villages Visan and Valréas wines. Route As the capital of the Côtes du Rhône and the food 3 also hides another jewel in its crown: the truffle, capital of Provence, Avignon boasts an illustrious along with an iconic truffle market in the erstwhile history which has led to its inclusion as a designated Templar town of Richerenches. UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is a major spiritual, political, economic and cultural centre, and still retains its hallmark as one of the greatest and Vineyards of the Ardèche most beautiful examples of the Gothic style in all of Route 4 is the most untamed of the Wine Trails, Europe. Make time to visit the unique new showcase known for its unusual views over the vineyards for wine tourism in the famous Palais des Papes in and its unchanged natural landscapes. This is the Avignon - due to open in 2015. destination of choice for the active visitor, offering caving, vineyard walks, climbing, kayaking, canoeing down the Gorges de l’Ardèche… From Roquemaure to Remoulins To the west of Avignon, Route 9 takes visitors through the vineyards of the Gard: Ville- From Orange to Vaison la Romaine neuve-Lez-Avignon, across from the City of the Route 5 criss-crosses the Côtes du Rhône villages of Popes, then Lirac and Tavel with their famous crus, Cairanne, Roaix, Puyméras, Plan de Dieu and Massif and finally Roquemaure, birthplace of the Côtes d’Uchaux. Welcome to the grandeur of the Roman du Rhône. Walkers should be sure to stop at the era! The Arc de Triomphe in Orange leads you Pont du Gard to admire this masterpiece of Roman into the gates of the town, while the magnificent architecture, which has withstood the tests of time amphitheatre rivals that of Vaison la Romaine. to an impressive degree. This trail is steeped in the history of the Camargue.

CÔTES DU RHÔNE WINE TOURISM 5 The Festive Destination Unmissable Events in the Côtes du Rhône

In the Côtes du Rhône, any event is an excuse to party. With 380 festive celebrations scheduled throughout the year, the region’s event diary is full to bursting. There are theatre and music festivals, gourmet walks, sporting events and open-air tasting sessions… The Côtes du Rhône is transformed into a giant open-air concert hall, full of heady, delicious scents and rousing music. Dionysus, god of grapes, wine and theatre, graciously presides over all these landmark events.

Avignon’s 3 major festive events

The Côtes du Rhône Pomp and Circumstance An Ovation celebrate their own - The Start of Harvest in for the New festival in July Avignon: August Harvest in November The Côtes du Rhône – long-standing The Ban des Vendanges is a partner of the Avignon Festival celebration to announce that the Millevin introduces Every year, the Avignon Festival hosts grapes are ripe and harvests can Côtes du Rhône wines over 1,200 different performances, begin: the perfect excuse for a party and the new vintage to including drama, dance, visual arts full of colour and music, with grand great fanfare in Avignon, to an and music. The city of Avignon parades featuring the Compagnons audience of vignerons, négociants, becomes a full-scale theatre with des Côtes du Rhône and other fraternities and other fun-loving an audience of 40,000 enthusiastic traditional Côtes de Rhône wine enthusiasts. A colourful, festive spectators strolling through the fraternities. programme with good food and city’s winding lanes. Between 7 The programme includes performances, good wine – all in a magical setting. and 11pm, enjoy a glass of Côtes du games and entertainment in the Rhône or Côtes du Rhône Villages spectacular parkland at Rocher des in the friendly atmosphere of Côtes Doms and the Clos de la Vigne du du Rhône pop-up bar in the Maison Palais des Papes, a typically Provençal des Vins. A sommelier guides guests exhibition/event and open-to-all through his personal selection, whilst tasting of Côtes du Rhône wines with winemakers are on hand to share a gourmet market featuring local their insights and expertise. products, followed by a free concert in the evening.

6 CÔTES DU RHÔNE WINE TOURISM It’s all happening in the vineyard

May: The Vineyard does as it likes October: The Harvests of Yesteryear in Chusclan Here in the Côtes du Rhône, the Fête de la vigne et du vin (Festival of Vine and Wine) is an open day on a grand scale for cellars and vineyards throughout the region, For one weekend only, the village will and is held on the first Saturday following Ascension be revisiting old times – visitors will Day. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and visitors be transported back to the everyday are invited to participate in a variety of activities including goings-on in the Chusclan of the last table presentation workshops, country-style meals, walks, century, to celebrate the savoir-faire, donkey rides, cellar visits and tastings, concerts etc. activities and traditions of times gone The festival draws in all members of the wine industry by. Côtes du Rhône wines have pride including private and co-operative cellars, wine merchants, of place, and are available to taste at oenologists, sommeliers and professional associations, the many stalls lining the route, served plus a range of local artisan producers showcasing their by vignerons in costume. Discover the local products based around a common theme. different cuvées of the Côtes du Rhône Villages Chusclan appellation, all themed around history.

Vineyard events at a glance…

April May July From farm to farm Festival of Vine and Wine Festival d’Avignon: pop-up bar at the Vigneron picnic – Rhône Valley Maison des Vins, Avignon

August - Sept July - August All Summer Ban des Vendanges, Avignon Liszt in Provence Music in the Vineyard: all areas

October November Harvests of Yesteryear, Millevin, Avignon Chusclan CÔTES DU RHÔNE WINE TOURISM 7 The active destination

Fly, sail, cycle, walk…

While some visitors while away their côtes du rhone days relaxing and enjoying the good life, others prefer to pull on their trainers and race around the area, sampling the many sporting activities on offer. With hundreds of kilometres of walking trails, golf courses, water activities and caves, this is an activity-lover’s paradise, and a new way to experience wine culture – high-octane sports and a chance to soar…

Wine Estates and Cellars…

In the Footsteps of the St Pantaléon les Vignes Popes - Valréas You’ll need to set aside 3 hours for the 7 km “footpath through the terroirs” trail coupled A 12 km walking trail from the town centre with its own tasting session featuring a in Valréas. Walk along the perimeter of delightful selection of wines, specially chosen the Enclave des Papes - the erstwhile to showcase the expressive range of terroirs to papal properties - marked out by stones which the Drôme Provençale is home. carved with one or more coats of arms. The route boasts magnificent views over Mont Ventoux, the Dentelles de Montmirail Domaine de la Croix-Blanche in and the Montagne de la Lance. Saint-Martin d’Ardèche A 3 km walking trail across the sunny slopes of the Family-friendly vineyard walks in Côtes du Rhône. This Domaine has passed down from generation to generation, keeping faith with its family Laudun and Chusclan traditions and savoir-faire. In terms of entertainment and Starting from the cellars at Laudun and Chusclan, visitors activity, the estate takes part in a “farm to Farm” event can choose from a series of educational itineraries every April, and also organises gourmet open days at across a network of vineyard paths. “Vines and the the end of November and beginning of December. These Senses” (Chusclan) takes the walker up to Château de are an ideal opportunity to sample the range of Côtes Gicon, a mediaeval fortress overlooking the vineyards du Rhône wines made here across all three colours: red, and restored by local vignerons; “The Vineyards through white and rosé. Time” (Camp de César in Laudun) uncovers a plethora of historical remains, while the “Vineyard Animals” trail with its 10 information points will appeal to younger visitors. This walk finishes with a delightful tasting session at the co-operative cellar.

8 CÔTES DU RHÔNE WINE TOURISM A Family-Friendly les Vignes for example, to view the trail lasts approximately 1 hour and Louis Gauthier collection, or to visit 45 mins, and leads walkers along 4 Walk - The Wine Trail at the Naturoptère nature project at kms of footpaths through stunning Sainte-Cécile Sérignan du Comtat. landscapes. This is an itinerary to Departing from Sainte-Cécile-les- teach and inspire, across a prestigious, Vignes, the Chemin de Vigne is a world-famous region. wine trail offering 14km of footpaths Discover the Hermitage through the vineyards – an excellent Vineyards with La Cave way to discover the distinctive fauna Cave les Coteaux and flora of Aygues. de Tain La Cave de Tain invites visitors on de Visan The Aygues Ouvèze bike trail has There are 13 km of delightful a walking trail departing from the been mapped out in conjunction trails through the vineyards of Wine Shop and leading through the with the Haut Vaucluse Tourism this astounding terroir, with its Hermitage vineyards “in the steps Development Agency, and includes south-facing slopes of chalky clay and of Gambert.” The walk is divided cycle routes for everyone to enjoy. pebbles; perfect for walking, cycling into 11 sections, and showcases the Perfect for a family bike ride through or mountain-biking. After your trail, geology of Hermitage, its terraced some delightful scenery, with stops take the time to admire the unique vineyards, varietals and terroir. The along the way – at Sainte-Cécile cellar carved into the safre rock.

Take to the water

Invite your friends to a cruise - with a Escapado: The go-to guide for vineyard difference explorers. Choose your theme – wine in this case - and Gather your friends and climb aboard for a cruise of the hey presto, a number of different routes for walkers, vineyards – to the sounds of the disco! A unique way to see cyclists and drivers will appear. Don’t miss the new the sights of Avignon, capital of the Côtes du Rhône: the geo-caching activity starting at Vaison la Romaine; famous bridge, the Palais des Papes, the Rocher des Doms… this is a game where one player hides a “treasure,” After passing through the lock, continue on to the pretty little then publishes GPS co-ordinates, encouraging other town of Roquemaure, birthplace of the appellation – and then players to hunt the treasure using their own GPS. A dance away to the disco beat until you’re back on dry land. fun way to discover the hidden corners of the Côtes du Rhône. Thrill to a canoe ride down the Gorges de l’Ardèche Take to the air above the Côtes du Canoeing down the Gorges de l’Ardèche is a popular Rhône vineyards: summertime activity: a thrilling adventure, forged by water, The Cellier des Chartreux at Pujaut offers a unique nature and the sun at the heart of the protected nature reserve. adventure: explore 570 hectares of vines from a glider, After the Pont d’Arc - a breath-taking natural arch some 60 m or motor glider, in the company of an experienced pilot. in height - your descent follows a canyon lined with cliffs and What a fantastic way to see the Rhône, soaring above caves to either side. And with trails of 8km, 12km, 24km, 32 km the magnificent vineyards of Mont Ventoux, Avignon and and 37 km, there is something for everyone. Villeneuve-Lez-Avignon …And once you’re back on terra The Cave of Saint Marcel d’Ardèche is open to visitors from firma, experience a different kind of splendour as the March to November, and features underground rivers, pools, Cellier des Chartreux share the beauty of their wines with waterfalls and immense open spaces – a mix of geology, you in a Côtes du Rhône tasting. archaeology and caving to astound and delight the active visitor. See these activities on our website: vins-rhone.com Click on “Routes des Vins/Active” Discover a Unique Underground Space Underground rivers, cascading water basins, soaring cathedrals…the caves at Grotte de Saint Marcel are open to visitors from March to September. This is where geology, archaeology and speleology meet – a mysterious spot full of secrets to pass on to the dedicated explorer. More inquisitive visitors will want to make their way to the heart of Grotte de St Marcel, classed as a natural heritage site of the Gorges de L’Ardèche; a handful of Ardèche winemakers have set up a space here for ageing their wines, seeing this as the perfect opportunity to showcase the advantages of aging wine in such ideal conditions. The cave is almost 80 metres underground and set in Urgonian limestone, the bed of an ancient fossil river (the Ardèche), and wines are symbiotically matured in a naturally organic environment. They are in constant contact with the terroir’s clay soils, deposited by nature, in a consistently humid atmosphere (86%) at a constant temperature of 13°C, and in complete darkness.

CÔTES DU RHÔNE WINE TOURISM 9 The Gourmet Destination Flavours of the Vineyard

Avignon, capital of the cotes du rhone, boasts not only a unique cultural heritage, but is also the symbol of a rich gastronomic tradition.

Apprentice Gourmet?

A Winter Treat: Truffles and Côtes du Rhône Wines The Avignon Gourmet Tour is an exciting new way to Truffles can partner any food to perfection: macarons, discover the city. Visit Les Halles, (covered market), chocolate – even hamburgers. But nothing is as natural a fit and sample a variety of local products from artisan for these “black pearls” as a Côtes du Rhône wine. Try it for shops and outlets along with a selection of the region’s yourself on the Enclave des Riverenches wine trail in November, wines – all in a friendly, welcoming environment. by joining the “Ban des Truffes” celebrations. At Domaine du Val des Rois, Emmanuel and Erika are ready to welcome you to their table to sample truffles and regional specialities served alongside the estate’s For Vine and Wine Enthusiasts: Picnic own wines. Meals feature truffles from Richerenches and at Domaine de la Remejeanne in Sabran other local produce; your hosts will be on hand to answer any In June, the Domaine organises a guided walk taking in all questions you may have. You can even see a demonstration of aspects of the vineyard, including its history, its fauna and its truffle hunting (cavage). Truffle season is December – March. flora. This is followed by wine-tasting in the cellars, after which the vignerons invite visitors to join them in a picnic featuring For Enquiring Minds: Côtes du Rhône authentic foods made with ingredients from their kitchen wines are showcased at the Maison des Vins in garden. A simple, friendly occasion, made for sharing. Avignon Make a stop at the Maison des Vins, at the very heart of For the Connoisseur: Tasting a Flight of Avignon, to learn about pairing foods with different Côtes Château d’Hugues Wines du Rhône wines. Featured foods: foie gras, figs and heritage The vineyards of Château d’Hugues are located at the heart vegetables. of the southern Côtes du Rhône, planted on the hillsides of the Massif d’Uchaux where they grow alongside oaks, pines For the Bon Viveur: A unique wine and junipers in their own unique microclimate. This gives workshop at Maison Lavau in Violes - available all the terroir a range of distinctive characteristics, expressed year through 17 different cuvees and 25 vintages. The Château offers horizontal and vertical tastings of all these wines, but Visitors will enjoy creating their “perfect wine” – and in doing also a “diagonal” version, which consists of tasting a range of so, discover the typical characteristics of the Côtes du Rhône 5 wines from different vintages – but all with a single common varietals. They are then welcome to take their own blend denominator such as tannic structure or elegance. These are home. Our sweet-toothed gourmets might also like the “Côtes served alongside 5 mini-dishes specially chosen by our partner du Rhône and Nougat” pairing workshop. chef.

10 CÔTES DU RHÔNE WINE TOURISM Wine-tasting Walks through the vineyards

A gourmet trail taking in 4 Domaines beginners and experienced blenders alike, including a guide to tasting, a tour of the winery and a chance to create your own in Valréas special cuvée. Every Thursday from June 1st to harvest Open air entertainment, starting in Visitors can join this wine trail in Valréas, August visiting Domaine du Val des Rois, Domaine As night falls, Cairanne’s vignerons become de Mas de Sainte Croix and Domaine des vineyard guides, leading visitors along Grands Devers, meeting the producers a magical vineyard trail incorporating and discovering the wines. On the musical entertainment and theatre menu: a series of unique themed meals performance. Stops are made to sample with a potted history of the lives of some of the region’s deliciously typical the producers. An authentic, fun and food/wine pairings, and a delightful friendly occasion. dinner dance rounds off the evening.

June: A Musical Trail Guest Rooms and Table from Plan de Dieu to d’Hôte at Dieulefit Travaillan Domaine Dieulefit is a 100% organic wine Gourmet trail through the heart of the Côtes du estate in Visan, with 5 guest rooms boasting Rhône Villages Plan de Dieu appellation. One item spectacular views of Mont Ventoux; the estate from the menu can be enjoyed at each stop, with musical grounds feature trees that are hundreds of years old. Owner entertainment in the wine cellars. Géraldine’s menu of “slow-food” changes according to what has been gathered that day, and is based on home-grown Spring/Summer Gourmet Trails in fresh heritage fruit and vegetables and other home-produced or local organic products. Fine, flavoursome Provençale food! Cairanne Starting in March: “The Vigneron’s Table” at View our wine-related activities on vins-rhone.com Domaine Armand Click on routes des vins / gourmande and then “déguster” A day for getting to know the vignerons, a day for learning, a day for activities in the open air…the programme includes a visit to the vineyard (on foot), a beginner’s guide to wine-tasting and a stroll around the traditional village of Cairanne. From April, the Domaine also offers ablending workshop for

CÔTES DU RHÔNE WINE TOURISM 11 The Cultural Destination Between History and Heritage The Côtes du Rhône enjoy a privileged location between the mediterranean and northern europe. When the ancient greeks settled here, they brought with them a culture of vine and wine, which continued to thrive under the rule of the romans who arrived in 125 bc. Avignon, the capital of the Côtes du Rhône, is noted for being the seat of the papacy from the 14th century. For more than 100 years, 9 popes were resident here, from Clement V to Benedict XIII, and made their mark on the development of the vineyards. Here are some of the “unmissables”.

Historical Treasures Did you know? • La Charterhouse at l’ Hermitage The Vigne des Papes is the only AOC vineyard • Château de Tournon located within city limits. Its upkeep is the • The Charterhouse at Valbonne, Vallée de la Cèze responsibility of the Compagnons des Côtes • Le Camp de César at Laudun du Rhône, for whom every stage in the vine’s development is an occasion to celebrate! This is • 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites certainly the case at pruning time in March and the • Avignon: Pont Saint-Bénezet and the Palais des Papes Ban de Vendanges in September, a major festive event • Orange: Ancient theatre and Arc de Triomphe marking the start of harvest. • Remoulin: Pont du Gard • Grotte Chauvet Contrary to the words of the popular song, dancing in Avignon did not take place on the bridge, but under it – notably at the many dance cafés on the Ile de la Barthelasse in the 19th century. Key Dates

14th Century 17th Century 18th Century 19th Century 20th Century From their residence “Côte du Rhône” is Roquemaure is Côte du Rhône At the instigation of in Avignon, the Popes the name given to an historically the becomes Côtes du Baron Le Roy, the look to the local administrative region birthplace of Côtes Rhône, having reached Appellation d’Origine vineyards for their in the Viguerie d’Uzès du Rhône. The barrels over and encompassed Contrôlée Côtes du wine needs. John XII (Gard), whose wines leaving this little port the vineyards on the Rhône becomes a builds the château at are renowned. A on the Rhône were left bank of the Rhône. recognised entity. Châteauneuf du Pape, regulation is introduced engraved with the while Benedict XII in 1650 to protect letters CDR (Coste du orders work to begin their provenance and Rhône), along with the on the Palais des Papes. authenticity and to year of vintage and guarantee quality. harvest location.

12 CÔTES DU RHÔNE WINE TOURISM Find out more…

The Château museum and University designed around an itinerary which takes the visitor from tasting right through to of Suze-la-Rousse sales. The Château Museum of Suze-la-Rousse stands proudly on a rocky promontory against a backdrop of lush greenery. This mediaeval fortress is classed as one of the historic monuments Wine Museum at of the Côtes du Rhône region. Since 1978, part of the château Maison Brotte has been home to the Wine University, a professional The museum section of the Maison educational facility dedicated to wine and winegrowing, with Brotte cellar houses a vast collection courses covering all aspects of vine and wine The University of winemaking tools, alongside other also runs activities aimed at boosting wine intelligence among unusual pieces including a 4,000 litre the general public. cask in chestnut wood dating from the 14th century, and a 16th century wooden Néovinum in Ruoms wine press over 2m high. Cellar visits and So much more than just a tasting facility or wine museum, tasting available. Néovinum is a vast space devoted to learning about wines and is the brainchild of the vignerons of the Ardèche. Visits are

Côtes du Rhône and the most beautiful villages in France

Everywhere you look, there are charming little villages just Aiguèze, Gard waiting to be admired, some of which are listed as members A magnificent mediaeval village, now restored, nestled in its of the Most beautiful Villages in France. It’s a pleasure to eagle’s eyrie location. stroll along the village lanes and see the historic houses, with breathtaking landscapes as a backdrop. These villages really shouldn’t be missed… La Roque sur Cèze, Gard This village is home to the remains of an ancient château and Romanesque chapel, and has magnificent views over the Séguret, Vaucluse Cascades du Sautadet waterfalls. This little village perched on the side of a hill overlooks a vast Relax for a moment at Domaine de la Réméjeanne and enjoy expanse of vineyard-covered plain. unrivalled views of Mont Ventoux with its olive groves, oaks, Don’t forget to stop at Domaine de Mourchon, a sloping dry-stone walls and vine-covered slopes. wine estate nestled on the hillside at 350m above sea level, producing the delicious Côtes du Rhône Villages Séguret with See these activities on our website vins-rhone.com its intense colour and fruity flavours. Click on “Visit”

CÔTES DU RHÔNE WINE TOURISM 13 The Romantic Country Destination Côtes du Rhône Favourites The Côtes du Rhône are bursting with colour, their gentle landscapes dedicated to the vine. And who better to fashion this scenery than the wine estates? No two vineyards, landscapes or gardens are the same; and to enrich the visitor’s experience, the region houses innumerable treasures in animal, vegetable and mineral form.

Relaxing ‘à deux’in the Côtes du Rhône

Lounging by the Pool at Pamper yourself at Château Saint Maurice Domaine de Provensol in in l’Ardoise Venterol Enjoy a stay in this beautiful 19th century Wellbeing is the word on everyone’s château with access to the gardens lips at this organic vineyard. A range and a private swimming pool. Visit and of seasonal organic products is always tasting. available, alongside sessions to sample the “natural” wines with a good balance Stroll through the of structure, fruit and minerality. And don’t forget to treat yourself to one of Vineyard Gardens at the massage treatments and the spa… Château Beauchêne in Piolenc A Unique Sensory After tasting a range of delightfully Reflect on Life at Experience at Cairanne powerful, fruity, elegant wines, Notre-Dame de Cousignac, The sensory experience at Cairanneis a stroll through the rows delight for all 5 senses, guiding the wine of vines planted in this Bourg-Saint-Andéol lover through a fun and factual journey This lovely old 17th century farmhouse extraordinary vineyard aimed at discovering all about wine. garden featuring has been renovated as a guesthouse. the AOC’s 13 grape With its magnificent swimming pool and varieties, then relax in tiny chapel, it certainly has character! the welcome shade of a magnificent old oak tree.

14 CÔTES DU RHÔNE WINE TOURISM Romantic Moments

Night-time Classics in the Vineyard Country-style Picnic with the from July to September Vignerons in June – Venues The Liszt Festival in Provence is dedicated to the memory of throughout the Côtes du Rhône Franz Liszt, and draws music lovers to Château Saint Estève Visitors are invited to bring their own picnic baskets along to d’Uchaux, near Orange, for a series of open air concerts. the participating Domaine, where vignerons will extend a warm Relax to the strains of Chopin and Beethoven…These concerts welcome, providing tables, chairs and wines to accompany the featuring Côtes du Rhône tasting sessions together with the meal. artists are sure to strike the right note!

Memories are made of this: Nationale 7

“The route to summer, Across Burgundy and Provence, Transforming Paris into the outskirts of Valence, Or a suburb of Don’t Miss St Paul de Vence…Route 7, the road to happiness”. • The retro campsite at Tain l’Hermitage in September In 1955, Charles Trenet wrote this song to celebrate Route N7 • The “Memories of the N7” museum in Piolenc – the road travelled by families from northern France en-route • Strolling around the 1950s – 1980s vintage fair in Avignon to the Côte d’Azur, to enjoy their paid holidays. N7 carries in June many happy memories for holidaymakers on their mopeds, • The Guinguette du Vieux Moulin on the banks of the in caravans or 2CVs, motoring through the rural landscape, Rhône at Villeneuve-Lez-Avignon; enjoy tasting Côtes hurrying towards the paradise of which they have dreamed du Rhône wines in 19th century surroundings, along with all year. With no hint of the overwhelming traffic jams, this some delicious, home-cooked food legendary route is a leisurely experience nowadays, gliding • The Guinguette in Chusclan through the Côtes du Rhône, a retro wind at your back…

CÔTES DU RHÔNE WINE TOURISM 15 Côtes du Rhône: Aims and Ambitions

Inter Rhône, driving the development of oenotourism

What’s the Issue? Oenotourism (or wine tourism) in France attracts some 7.5 million enthusiasts (Atout France), drawn largely by the culture of food and wine. The location and vineyards of the Côtes du Rhône and Rhône Valley make this area a popular destination, with the capacity to delight 14 million visitors every year.

Who? Inter Rhône is the joint professional organization for Côtes du Rhône and Rhône Valley AOC wines; they represent all aspects of viticulture and wine sales in the area.

16 CÔTES DU RHÔNE WINE TOURISM Why? How? Some 10 years ago, the vignerons and négociants of the Côtes The concept of the 9 Côtes du Rhône wine routes and their du Rhône and Rhône Valley expressed a wish that Inter Rhône inauguration in 2003 marked the start of a key development support them in developing their wine tourism offering. Quite opportunity for the Côtes du Rhône. Inter Rhône then focused early on, Inter Rhône were able to identify the issues at stake, on helping and supporting the various cellars to improve the both with regard to image and to sales; they then created a quality of their visitor services, and on building up a structured, strategy to address these two key points. This proved to be a marketable wine tourism offering. This included developing way for Inter Rhône to bring together industry professionals, an array of communications tools, and Inter Rhône now and support the promotional activities of the tourist authorities takes an active part in promoting wine tourism in France and with whom they worked closely. This basic strategy of abroad, in partnership with various tourist authorities such as empowerment is seen as one of the most dynamic in France, Departmental and Regional Tourist Agencies, Atout France and has been an inspiration for other French vineyards. Inter etc. Rhône’s expertise has made them into an essential partner for Côtes du Rhône and Rhône Valley wine professionals wanting to focus on building up a wine tourism offering. Inter Rhône is also seen by Atout France as the “go-to” authority on wine tourism at national level, particularly by the “Vignobles et Découvertes“ (Vineyards and Discoveries) brand.

CÔTES DU RHÔNE WINE TOURISM 17 Côtes du Rhône: Aims and Ambitions Côtes du Rhône, a Warm Welcome

As a pioneer in this field, Inter Rhône created a Quality Charter entitled “Côtes du Rhône - a Warm Welcome”. (Côtes du Rhône - Terroirs d’Accueil). This initiative has experienced a significant growth in popularity since its inception, and a serious commitment on the part of the vignerons and négociants who have adopted it. Over 315 cellars nowsubscribe to the Charter. Cellars where tasting is offered and which adhere to the criteria laid down by the Charter are grouped into three TERROIRS levels, each identified by a vine leaf logo. D’ACCUEIL

A New Quality Charter to Shape the Côtes du Rhône’s Winegrowing Estates After 10 years, and with one change (in 2005) already under its belt, Inter Rhône have upgraded the Charter criteria in order to meet wine tourism needs more exactly; meanwhile, they have also changed the way in which vine leaves are awarded: The 3-tier system remains in place, but the method of attributing awards has moved towards percentage compliance.

2016 £ 2016 80 to 86 % 2016 ££ 2016 87 to 93 % 2016 £££ 2016 94 to 100 %

How will I recognise an accredited winery? An enamelled plaque at the entrance of every accredited institution indicates compliance with the Charter. It shows whether the cellar/ tasting facility has been awarded 1, 2 or 3 vine leaves for the current year. The plaques come in 9 colours, each corresponding to one of the Côtes du Rhône wine routes.

18 CÔTES DU RHÔNE WINE TOURISM To support the vineyards with their own individual Did you know? programmes, Inter Rhône is developing a set of Ministers in charge of tourism and agriculture have awarded communications tools to meet the needs of the different “Vignobles and Découvertes” (Vineyards and Discoveries) target markets. These include: brand accreditation to 6 Rhône destinations on the basis • 9 wine route maps and 1 programme of events, to be of their high quality offerings. These are: “From Cornas to distributed to visitors via the tourist offices; Saint Péray,” “From Hermitage to Saint Joseph,” “Rhône Val- ley-Condrieu-Côte Rôtie,” and more recently, “Around the • A website for the general public; Dentelles de Montmirail,” “Côtes du Rhône Gardoises.” And • An information dossier to be distributed to travel agents “Drôme Provençale” The brand was launched in 2009, and and tour operators to help with constructing itineraries; aims to promote wine tourism, making it easier for visitors to • An online self-assessment tool to help winegrowers and plan their stay and be guided towards suitable, high quality wine merchants develop new programmes and activities; services.

New for 2016: Visitors to Avignon, capital of the Côtes du Rhône, will be able to see the town from a wine tourism perspective, using the first ever mobile app to be developed by Inter Rhône. (Available spring 2016). A new wine tourism publicity campaign will promote the Côtes du Rhône through the outstanding beauty of its natural landscapes.

New Wine Tourism Award Inter Rhône have recently introduced a new Wine Tourism Award to meet a growing need from tour enamel plaque at the winery entrance; the gold leaf symbol operators and visitors from France and will also appear on promotional materials, making it abroad, for new and exciting ways to DU R easier for agencies to identify accredited facilities explore the vineyards. S HÔ E when marketing the Côtes du Rhône region. Only “3-leaf” Domaines are eligible to T N Ô E - Additional activities may include for example: win the new award, as three leaves C

D guest rooms, food/wine pairing workshops, or already demonstrate the highest E I established footpaths and trails through the S

quality of welcome. To achieve the M T vineyards. S award, the Domaine must comply with I N I 80% of the 28 wine tourism criteria as R C laid down by Inter Rhône. T U IO TO Accredited Domaines are required to N ŒNO offer a vine and wine related activity See these activities on our website vins-rhone.com in addition to tours and tastings. The new Click on “destinations” award is represented by a golden leaf on an

CÔTES DU RHÔNE WINE TOURISM 19 The Côtes du Rhône Landscape and Environment Charter Mosaic vineyards, heroic vineyards, amphitheatre vineyards… the Côtes du Rhône comprise a total of 16 distinct landscape types

The Côtes du all industry stakeholders. The Rhône unveiled in aim was to find ways to unite 2015 their new these stakeholders around a single Landscape and operational approach, and to Environment facilitate networking. Charter, enlisting winegrowers, the • This in turn led to the formalisation community and of the Charter, committing both other appellation the Syndicat and its partners to organisations safeguarding and nurturing the to make specific Rhône vineyards, and to preparing commitments in them to face the challenges of the support of the landscape and future. environment of the Rhône, to ensure the sustainability of the The Syndicat and winemakers – appellation and protect the image all industry players, in fact - are and reputation of its wines. committed to the aims and means of developing wine tourism in the In 2013, having observed how region. The Charter, for example, environmental and landscape urges stakeholders to focus on issues are playing an increasing signage in the vineyards and on role in public policy-making, the the wine trails, but also to inform, Côtes du Rhône enlisted the help educate and raise awareness of a specialist company to look at amongst industry professionals, new approaches, leading to the members and technical experts formulation of this binding Charter. about this widely-known and loved piece of cultural heritage, and • A survey of the landscape and how to pass their knowledge on to environment defined the intrinsic others. features of the Côtes du Rhône vineyards. The process identified The result of this work is an 16 distinct landscape types, each attractive 171-page document linked to its own unique skill detailing the specific landscape set (environmental, landscape-re- features of the Rhone vineyards lated, heritage or society-based) and the accompanying skills which developed by winegrowers. have grown up alongside them.

• The results of the survey led to the publication of a document detailing a list of actions and re- commendations, with input from

20 CÔTES DU RHÔNE WINE TOURISM le Gier RHÔNE Vienne CÔTE RÔTIE la Gère

CHÂTEAU-GRILLET

CONDRIEU LOIRE

The Hero ic Vineyard

SAINT-JOSEPH

la Galaure

HERMITAGE

Tournon-sur-Rhône The M an-made Vineyard le Doux l’Isère

CROZES-HERMITAGE

CORNAS Valence

SAINT-PÉRAY

l’Eyrieux

The 16 landscape la Drôme entities identified Côtes du Rhône le Roubion

le Rhône Montélimar

The Diver se V ineyard

A7

ROUSSET LES VIGNES DRÔME The Balc ony Vineyard ARDÈCHE SAINT-PANTALÉON LES VIGNES The Valréas Vineyard VALRÉAS l’Ardèche in the The Terraced Vineyard INSOBRES Forestle Lez V VISAN SAINT-MAURICE-SUR-EYGUES

The Amphithe atre V ineyard Bollène PUYMÉRAS The Heritag e V ineyard ROCHEGUDE ROAIX Vaison-la-Romaine la Cèze RASTEAU CAIRANNE SÉGURET

MASSIF D’UCHAUX SAINT-GERVAIS SABLET Vineyards as Far as t he Ey e c an Se e GIGONDAS PLAN DE DIEU The Continuous Vineyard Bagnols-sur-Cèze l’Aigue BEAUMES-DE-VENISE CHUSCLAN Orange VACQUEYRAS l’Ouvèze The Postcard Vineyard la Tave LAUDUN The Pr omontory Vineyard CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE The Face-to-Fac e Vineyard VAUCLUSE LIRAC GARD

TAVEL les Sorgues The Intimat e Vineyard

Avignon le Gardon SIGNARGUES GADAGNE Remoulins The Accessibl e V ineyard The Mosaic Vin eyard le Rhône la Durance A9

N

0 15 30 km

CÔTES DU RHÔNE WINE TOURISM 21 Côtes du Rhône: Aims and Ambitions Le Carré du Palais, the essential destination

Le Carré du Palais – An Unmissable New Destination for Wine Lovers

A major new project for Inter Rhône and its partners: Le Carré du Palais is a flagship new wine tourism destination showcasing the Rhône Valley’s AOC wines.

The Hôtel Calvet de la Palun, one of Avignon’s iconic buildings and an erstwhile branch of the Banque de France, is strategically located alongside the Place du Palais des Papes, which attracts some 600,000 visitors a year.

Work started in the first quarter of 2014, and the Carré du Palais is set to open to the public in April 2016 featuring:

•  A Wine School with workshops for every level of expertise, held in 8 different languages • A Wine Bar with a terrace overlooking the Palais des Papes, serving wines from all the Rhône Valley AOC appellations. • A restaurant area, including a gourmet restaurant seating 25 on a terrace with panoramic views over Place de l’Horloge, and a more casual bistro restaurant with a warm welcome for everyone. • A prestigious hotel/residence with unrivalled views of the area’s historical attractions. • High quality shops featuring a range of natural ferments such as tea, coffee, chocolate and bread. Inter Rhône will be in overall charge of one such shop adjoining the wine bar, making it simpler for visitors to access the region’s wines.

Inter Rhône are not going it completely alone, however. While they have overall leadership of the Wine School, they operate in partnership with other investors when it comes to the LE CARRE DU PALAIS restaurants, wine bar and hotel/residence. IN FIGURES

Key information… The capital of the Côtes du Rhône and gateway to the Different building trade contractors are Rhône Valley vineyards has developed an iconic site in 21 employed on the site. a strategic location, making it the perfect showcase for heritage, terroir, gastronomy, lifestyle and wine. While the Carré du Palais is completely in keeping with its history and the world heritage site in which it is located, it Tonnes of waste have already been is also very much built for today, having all the necessary 28 removed. attributes to integrate seamlessly into the life of the city and to achieve international recognition. This ambitious project is part of Inter Rhône’s strategy to develop their wine tourism offering; it doubles as a Million Euros in total have been invested significant investment in raising the quality and boosting by all parties to acquire and renovate the recognition of to the Côtes du Rhône and Rhône Valley 7,7 building. Appellations.

22 CÔTES DU RHÔNE WINE TOURISM The Rhône Valley in Figures

> France’s 2nd largest AOC winegrowing area for conventional and organic wines, both by size and production volume.

> With wines produced over 6 départements, Côtes du Rhône and Rhône Valley wines represent the region’s chief economic activity. 390 million bottles were sold across 159 countries in 2013/2014.

> In 2015, Côtes du Rhône and Rhône Valley wines represented: • 69 000 hectares and 5,300 winegrowing enterprises • Harvests of 3.1 million hectolitres • 1.4 billion Euros in turnover • 46,000 jobs, both direct and indirect, making the wine industry the Rhône Valley’s leading employer

> A major tourist destination attracting 14 million visitors to the vineyards of the Côtes du Rhône and Rhône Valley every year.

> 380 tourist events, 120 in summer alone, make the Côtes du Rhône and the Rhône Valley more focused on celebration than any other winegrowing area in France.

CÔTES DU RHÔNE WINE TOURISM 23 Crédits photographiques : Photothèque Inter Rhône, E. Braud (Pirana), I.Desarzens, A.Gas, A. Maigre, P. Médard, P.Thomas, P.Thomas, Médard, P. I.Desarzens, A.Gas, A. Maigre, (Pirana), Rhône, E. Braud Inter : Photothèque photographiques Crédits David Ducane Alain Reynaud, Ubassy, Jérôme Petronio, Daniel, Thomas O’Brien, Roberto C. Grilhé, M. Barthélémy, Pauline TerreNeuve.com CONTACTS

WEBSITES PRESS CONTACT Take a look at the “Festive, Intriguing, Inter Rhône Active and Gourmet” sections for the Press Service: 9 Wine Trails in the Côtes du Rhône. [email protected] +33 (0)4 90 27 24 16/40 www.vins-rhone.com www.phototheque-inter-rhone.com