Côtes du Rhône French wine appellation guide: location, history, wines, climate & soil
Côtes du Rhône is the large regional appellation of the Rhône Valley and one of France's most popular wines, known for generous, fruity Grenache and Syrah blends that offer great value.
More info about Côtes du Rhône
Geographic position
Southeastern France, along the Rhône river from Vienne in the north to Avignon in the south, across six departments (Rhône, Loire, Ardèche, Drôme, Vaucluse and Gard), with most vineyards in the southern Rhône.
Origin & history
The Romans planted vines along the Rhône, and the popes of Avignon promoted its wines in the 14th century. In 1737 a royal edict required barrels from the Gard to be branded "C.D.R.", one of the first quality labels in Europe. The Côtes du Rhône AOC was created in 1937.
Wines & grape varieties
Mostly red, from Grenache (main grape in the south), Syrah (dominant in the north), Mourvèdre, Carignan and Cinsault; also rosés and whites from Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Marsanne, Roussanne, Bourboulenc and Viognier. Expect red berries, plum, spice and herbs.
Climate & soil
Continental in the north, Mediterranean in the south with the Mistral. Granite, limestone, sand, clay and rounded pebbles.
Wine region: Rhône
Grape varieties: Bourboulenc, Carignan, Cinsault, Clairette, Grenache Noir, Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Mourvèdre, Roussanne, Syrah, Viognier