This 6-wine tasting explores the full spectrum of the Rhône Valley, from the powerful and elegant wines of the Northern Rhône to the rich and complex blends of the Southern Rhône. You'll discover how geography, climate, and grape varieties create distinctly different wine styles within this legendary French wine region.  Selections include:

2023 Domaine Christophe Pichon, Condrieu

• Region: Condrieu, Northern Rhône Valley, France
• Grape Variety: 100% Viognier
• Style: Full-bodied white wine
• Tasting Notes: The king of Northern Rhône whites, with opulent aromas of apricot, peach, and honeysuckle. Rich and textured with a mineral backbone that defines great Condrieu.
• Why First: Start with this prestigious white to appreciate its complexity before moving to reds.

2019 Stephane Ogier, "Le Temps Est Venu" Côtes Du Rhône Blanc

• Region: Côtes du Rhône, Southern Rhône Valley, France
• Grape Varieties: Roussanne, Viognier, Marsanne blend
• Style: Medium-bodied white blend
• Tasting Notes: A beautiful Southern Rhône white blend with notes of white peach, honeysuckle, and herbs de Provence. Shows the difference between single-varietal Northern Rhône and blended Southern Rhône whites.
• Why Second: Compare the blended Southern style with the pure Viognier, moving from more to less intense.

2021 Dom de la Roche Paradis 'La Madone' Saint-Joseph

• Region: Saint-Joseph, Northern Rhône Valley, France
• Grape Variety: 100% Syrah
• Style: Medium-bodied red wine
• Tasting Notes: Elegant Northern Rhône Syrah with notes of blackberry, violet, and black pepper. Demonstrates the restrained, mineral-driven character of Northern Rhône reds.
• Why Third: Begin the red wine progression with the lighter, more elegant Northern Rhône style.

2022 Grand Montmirail, Gigondas "Les Deux Juliette"

• Region: Gigondas, Southern Rhône Valley, France
• Grape Varieties: Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre blend
• Style: Full-bodied red blend
• Tasting Notes: Classic Southern Rhône red blend with flavors of dark cherry, garrigue herbs, and spice. Shows the warmth and generosity typical of Southern Rhône wines.
• Why Fourth: Progress to the richer, more powerful Southern Rhône style while staying at moderate intensity.

2021 Domaine Christophe Pichon, Cornas "Allégorie" 

• Region: Cornas, Northern Rhône Valley, France
• Grape Variety: 100% Syrah
• Style: Full-bodied, powerful red wine
• Tasting Notes: Powerful and structured Syrah from the granite slopes of Cornas. Expect flavors of dark fruit, violets, and a smoky, meaty character with firm tannins.
• Why Fifth: Show the most powerful expression of Northern Rhône Syrah, demonstrating how terroir affects the same grape.

2021 Château de La Grande Gardiole, Châteauneuf-Du-Pape "Les Vieilles Vignes"

• Region: Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Southern Rhône Valley, France
• Grape Varieties: Traditional Châteauneuf-du-Pape blend (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, and others)
• Style: Full-bodied, complex red blend
• Tasting Notes: The crown jewel of Southern Rhône wines with complex aromas of red fruit, leather, and Mediterranean herbs. Full-bodied with a long, spicy finish.
• Why Last: End with the most prestigious and complex wine, showcasing the pinnacle of Southern Rhône winemaking.

Tasting Progression:

Northern vs Southern Comparison: The tasting alternates between Northern and Southern Rhône to highlight the regional differences:

• Northern Rhône: Single varietals (Viognier, Syrah), more mineral-driven, elegant
• Southern Rhône: Blends, warmer climate influence, more generous fruit

Educational Journey:

• Compare pure Viognier vs. white blends
• Experience Syrah in different Northern Rhône terroirs (Saint-Joseph vs. Cornas)
• Understand how Southern Rhône blends create complexity
• Finish with the region's most prestigious appellation

What You'll Learn:

• The fundamental differences between Northern and Southern Rhône
• How terroir affects the same grape variety (Syrah in different appellations)
• The art of blending vs. single varietals
• The hierarchy of Rhône appellations from regional to prestigious crus
• How climate and soil influence wine style within the same region

This expanded tasting provides a complete education in one of France's most important wine regions!