Wine tourism: 3 days in the Southern Rhône Valley
Wine tourism is growing increasingly in France, and we have no reason to wonder why when we see the diversity and richness of our vineyards!
Recently I visited 3 wine estates that have recently been awarded for their wine tourism initiatives and activities.
But what is oenotourism, really?
First and foremost, oenotourism is the opportunity to discover a vineyard or wine region in a different way. The time has long since passed when you stop at a vineyard to taste the wines and load bottles into the trunk of your car. Today, many vineyards offer many experiences and activities for visitors to participate in:
– Oenological learning
– Visits to cellars and cellars, meeting with the owners and the winemakers
– Discovery of the local gastronomy (food and wine pairings) and picnic in the heart of the vineyards
– Bike rides in the fields, horseback riding, driving an old car, riding a Segway, etc…
– Stay in charming accommodations
– Festivals, concerts, artistic or cultural events, etc…
Oenotourism is the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the wine industry, to live unforgettable experiences, and to explore sumptuous wine regions by immersing yourself in the terroir with passionate and exciting professionals.
Discovery of 3 wine-growing areas that have received the «oenotouristic distinction» award» during the wine tourism meetings organized by Rhône wines, The organization that brings together the professionals of viticulture and the trade in the Rhone Valley.
Visit this map to discover the appellations of the Rhone Valley.
The Notary's House in Vauvert
The Mas du Notaire It is located in the Gard, next to Vauvert. The estate offers tastings in the cellar and also accommodation in beautiful guest houses. To expand its wine tourism offering, the Mas du Notaire offers group activities such as an escape game.
A heart-warming experience for this beautiful old building and for the small bar in the main courtyard.
The Maison Bouachon in Châteauneuf-du-Pape
The field of House Bouachon It is located in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a appellation recognized worldwide for the quality of the wines produced. But what most struck me was the meeting with Florent Rigaut, a former pastry chef and passionate about the world of wine, who offers gourmet experiences like «wine pairing with food». The Maison Bouchon also offers visitors the opportunity to discover the vineyards by mountain bike or in an old 2CV. Quite unusual!
The Château de Bosc in Domazan
The last stop of this little trip in the southern Rhone valley: the discovery of the Château de Bosc, a beautiful building in the Napoleonic style, located next to the village of Domazan. I met Guillaume Reynaud, passionate about oenological research, and he explains, among other things, his invention of wines without sulfite preservatives.
Here, you can discover many contemporary works of art while strolling through the castle park, but also former fighter jets! Yes, you read that right!
There are many activities for children (the attic room with playful and interactive spaces) when the parents are busy enjoying the wines in the cellar.
Motorcycle enthusiasts will be delighted as one of the most beautiful collections of old motorcycles and bicycles can be found in the castle, to the delight of young and old alike.
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