Excursion : Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine tour - OPH5

● Meet your English-speaking local guide.
On this shared full day small group tour, we will first come and pick you up at the centrally located tourism office in Aix-en-Provence. Meet your English-speaking driver guide who will go over the itinerary and program of the day with you. Drive to the Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine region where you will have several wine tasting sessions in carefully selected local wineries.

● Châteauneuf-du-Pape Wine tour.
The Châteauneuf-du-Pape Appellation was one of 6 to be labeled as the first AOC wines of France in 1936. The vineyards planted by the Romans were extended and developed by the Popes residing in Avignon popes during the 14th century. The Pope sought a place sufficiently far from the city to discourage courtiers, sycophants, and scroungers, yet close enough so that a courier could go there and back to Avignon on the same day. The ideal spot was found on a hillock overlooking the Rhône Valley about halfway between Avignon and Orange – Châteauneuf – and this area was placed directly under his authority. As you reach this famous wine producing region, discover the village and its ancient castle that was the summer residence of the Popes during their stay in the area. Here, you will enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view on the valley.

● Morning Wine tasting session in a local Winery.
The Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines are well known for their full-bodied red wines made predominantly with different grape varieties such as Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre that are typical grapes that can be found in the southern vineyards of France. There are also some white Châteauneuf du Pape wines that are intensely perfumed. The grape varieties used for the white wines include Grenache Blanc, Rousannes, Clairette and Bourboulenc many of which are rustic French varietals.
Upon arrival in the village, it will be time to taste some of the local wines in a local winery. Then, you will have some free time to roam around and enjoy a wine tour of Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines in the old 14th century pope cellars. Depending on your wishes, it will be possible to taste more wines in the local wineries that your guide can point to.

● Lunch in a local restaurant (at own expense).
After your morning Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine tour, it will be time for lunch. Your guide will suggest different options so don't hesitate to ask for suggestions.

● Afternoon wine tasting session in a local winery after lunch, experience your second Châteauneuf-du-Pape winery tour. Listen about the history of this unique domain, visit the installations, and participate in a commented tasting of the wines of the estate. Take the opportunity to ask about the wine making process, the different blending that are possible and most of all learn about the large range of grape varieties that can be used to make these exceptional wines.

➜ Commented excursion only in English / Guaranteed departure from 2 people
➜ Departure from the Tourist Office at 9am
➜ Duration: 8h
➜ Pets are not allowed

➜ Booking at the information desk or on the website of the Tourist Office.