Ventoux French wine appellation guide: location, history, wines, climate & soil
Ventoux is a southern Rhône Valley appellation on the slopes of Mont Ventoux, the "Giant of Provence", producing fresh, fruity reds, rosés and whites with lift from altitude.
More info about Ventoux
Geographic position
Southeastern France, in the Vaucluse department, on the southern and western foothills of Mont Ventoux (6,273 feet), between Vaison-la-Romaine, Carpentras and Apt, east of Gigondas and Vacqueyras, with vineyards up to about 1,650 feet.
Origin & history
The Romans grew vines here, and in the 14th century the popes of Avignon promoted the local wines. The appellation was created in 1973 as Côtes du Ventoux and renamed Ventoux in 2009. Mont Ventoux is also famous as a legendary climb of the Tour de France.
Wines & grape varieties
Mostly red and rosé from Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault, Mourvèdre and Carignan; whites from Clairette, Bourboulenc, Grenache Blanc, Roussanne and Vermentino. Expect bright red fruit, garrigue and a fresh, lively finish.
Climate & soil
Mediterranean climate cooled by altitude and the Mistral, with big day-night temperature swings. Limestone, sand, clay and stony scree on the mountain's lower slopes.
Wine region: Rhône
Grape varieties: Bourboulenc, Carignan, Cinsault, Clairette, Grenache Noir, Grenache Blanc, Mourvèdre, Roussanne, Syrah, Vermentino