Rhone

The Rhone encompasses two very different production zones: the North which specializes in Syrah and a bit of Marsanne/Rousanne for white wine; and the South which specializes in Grenache and Grenache Blanc for white wine.

The large appellation of Cotes du Rhone can include grapes from either the North or South. However, most are produced in the southern end of the region and are largely blends with Grenache as the main grape.

Northern Rhone is located just south of Lyon and contains the appellations of Cote Rotie, St. Joseph, Hermitage and Cornas, among others. Southern Rhone, which is located around the town of Avignon, is much warmer and drier and includes the appellations of Chateauneuf du Pape, Gigondas and Vacqueyras among others.