Wine Tours Ardèche Hermitage

Hermitage AOC occupies a small, exceptional terraced granite hill overlooking the Rhône in the Drôme département, near Tain‑l’Hermitage, Larnage and Crozes‑Hermitage. Covering only about 130 hectares, this iconic appellation is famed for producing some of the Northern Rhône’s greatest Syrah-based reds. Its ancient vineyard terraces are classified as a national heritage site, and its reputation stretches back centuries, including royal acclaim in the 17th century .

Visiting Hermitage immerses you in a world of steep slopes and dry-stone terraces planted with vines that ripple down toward the river. You can explore wine trails linking Hermitage, Crozes‑Hermitage and Saint‑Joseph AOCs, sample both robust reds and rich whites in family domaines or cooperative cellars like Cave de Tain, and enjoy panoramic views from the famed hilltop chapel of the original hermit. The sensory hiking circuits bring terroir, history, and wine together in a scenic setting.

Hermitage’s richly structured reds—deep, peppery and often ageworthy—pair superbly with grilled lamb, game stews or charcuterie seasoned with herbs de Provence. The creamy, floral whites—made from Marsanne and Roussanne—make excellent companions to soft cheeses, mushroom dishes or rich poultry. For a sparkling encore, the rare vin de paille (straw wine) offers honeyed sweetness that beautifully completes a gourmet hillside lunch or sunset tasting.

The essence of Hermitage red lies in Syrah (minimum 90 %), sometimes enriched with small proportions of Roussanne and Marsanne (up to 15 %). These reds evolve from youthful violet and blackberry towards leather, truffle and sous‑bois over time. White Hermitage wines blend Marsanne and Roussanne into rich, aromatic bottles with notes of honeysuckle, nuts, apricot and spicy floral layers. Vin de paille—sweet straw wines—is also permitted under the appellation rules.

Spring reveals flowering garrigue and mild winds sweeping through the vineyard terraces, perfect for early tastings. Hot, dry summers ripen Syrah elegantly on sun-exposed slopes, and early autumn’s harvest brings cellar activity and blending demonstrations. As fall deepens, vineyard vistas take on warm ochre tones and wineries often host festivals around vendanges. Winter is quieter yet still inviting for heritage visits and walking the peaceful slopes of the Hermitage hill.

Start your visit in Tain‑l’Hermitage: wander its leafy streets, perhaps visit the Maison de la Cave and boutique cooperative. Then hike or cycle the oenotourism loops linking Hermitage terraces and nearby Crozes‑Hermitage plots. Taste wines in intimate domains perched on the hillside, enjoying views of the wine slopes and Rhône. Consider dining in Tain cafés or riverside bistros with local charcuterie and cheeses paired with Hermitage red or golden white, all under the Provençal sun setting over the grand cru slopes.

Here are the best wine tastings to book in Ardèche Hermitage:

• Northern Rhône Valley Wine Tasting Workshop for a couple in Tournon-sur-Rhône
• Exploration of the Northern Rhone Valley: Tasting of 5 wines in Tournon-sur-Rhône