The Côtes du Rhône appellation

A historic and locally anchored appellation

Given its location and the role it’s had in shaping the history of the vineyards, Avignon is very much the capital of the Côtes du Rhône. Its history goes hand in hand with the story of the appellations, like a symbiotic relationship where each strengthens the other’s reputation. Avignon’s near-obsession with Côtes du Rhône wines, its love and support for them, is evident all over town: in its buzzing restaurants, and through wine-related events such as the Bar à Vins des Côtes du Rhône in July, the Ban de Vendange (harvest celebrations) in late August, or the Millévin Festival celebrating the new vintage, held on the 3rd Thursday in November.

Vignes

Côtes du Rhône AOC

The Côtes du Rhône appellation area is spread over 172 communes in six departments in the south of the wine region: Ardèche, Drôme, Gard, Loire, Rhône and Vaucluse.

Key figures

  • 1937

    Recognition in AOC by the I.N.A.O.

  • 29 005 HA

    Production surface area in 2023

  • 1 077471 HL

    Total production in 2023

  • 84% Red

    Production

  • 8% Rosé

    Production

  • 8% White

    Production

Soils

  • Sandy
  • Limestone
  • Clay
  • Rocky

Climate

  • Mediterranean influenced by Mistral wind

Grape varieties

27 in 2024

The blend of AOC Côtes du Rhône wines is based on a palette of 27 grape varieties.

Palate

  • Elegant
  • Generous
  • Balance
  • Freshness

Aromas

  • Spices
  • Fruity notes
  • Floral notes