Rhône
The magnificent Rhône River has its source in the glacial Massif of St Gothard in Switzerland and pours into Lake Geneva, before making its way through to France through a narrow ravine at Fort d’Ecluse between the Jura mountains to the North and the Savoy Alps to the South. From here the river works its way down via wind valleys, narrow gorges and marshy flats to Anthon 30 kms from Lyon, where it is joined by a major tributary, the Ain. In the heart of Lyon the river is joined by the Saone, and from here wends its way more calmly for the next 340 kms to the Mediterranean.
The Rhône is France’s largest quality wine region after Bordeaux. The Northern Rhône vineyards start just around Vienne and then the Southern Rhône starts again at Avignon. In the North the red grape is Syrah and the white viognier. In the South Grenache and Cinsault is planted.
The Northern Rhône includes the world-class vineyards of Cote Rotie, Hermitage, Crozes Hermitages, Condrieu, St Joseph and Cornas whilst the Southern Rhône is dominated by the famous appellation of Chateauneuf du Pape, Gigondas, Vacqueyras and Beaumes de Venise.
Of course there are numerous beautiful towns to visit steeped in history, as the Rhône was once the most important economic and political route in the development of Western Europe. The Phoenicians, the Greeks and the Romans all used the river as their route into the country and beyond, preferring to navigate the river (as far as Lyons) then continue across Gaulle by horse and cart or on foot rather than face the Straits of Gibraltar. The long succession of conquerors and traders built the first elegant cities of the West and many of the most significant events in French history took place in the Rhone. Towns to visit include Avignon (for its half-built bridge and Palais des Papes), Orange and Nimes (for the Roman amphitheatres), Les Baux-de-Provence, Vienne and Tournon. You should also not miss a visit to the magnificent Roman Pont du Gard in the Southern Rhone.
For the wine and food tourist, Lyon is the gastronomic capital with many great Michelin starred restaurants and simple “bouchons” to be found in the labyrinth of streets in the fascinating Medieval quarter. Indeed this is the home of Triple Michelin chef Paul Bocuse, the father of Nouvelle Cuisine.
When visiting make sure you have a taste of local specialities such as a plate of Charcuterie, game page, Saddle of Hare in Cream Sauce, Quenelles of Pike, Bresse chicken, wild mushrooms, truffles …
So, the Rhône is a wonderful place for the wine tourist!
Northern Rhone & Beaujolais Crus Walk
7 - 13 September 2008
Rhone Reserve
21 - 25 October 2007, 22 - 26 March 2009
