Rhone

The Rhône Valley is the birthplace of the Syrah (known elsewhere as Shiraz) grape, the origins of which can be dated at least as far back as Roman times. The grape is responsible for big, powerful, spicy wines from prestigious AOCs such as Crozes-Hermitage and Cornas in the Northern Rhône. The Southern Rhône – home to Gigondas and the famous Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC – favours blends of Grenache, Mourvèdre, Cinsault and others. White varieties of the Rhone include Viognier – for which Condrieu is renowned – Roussanne and Marsanne.