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- Côte-Rotie, an exceptional terroir
Côte-Rotie, an exceptional terroir
One of the steepest vineyards in the Rhône Valley
Wine tours
Last updated date : 05/10/2026
On the hills above Vienne, Côte-Rôtie produces exceptional wines that are as powerful as they are elegant. Discover this unique vineyard with its distinctive steep slopes and its celebrated Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée.
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Presentation of the vineyard
Located between 140 and 320 metres above sea level, Côte-Rôtie boasts a unique terroir with extremely sheer slopes. The steepest reaches an incredible 60% incline! Due to this terrain, the winegrowers build dry-stone walls to support the earth and cultivate the vines on terraces. A topography that makes this vineyard unique and even forces some winegrowers to harvest using a harness.
The Allobroges (a Gaulish people) were the first to undertake viticulture in this location 2,400 years ago. In the 16th century, legend has it that the owner of the Château d’Ampuis, the Marquis de Maugiron, supposedly divided his estate between his two daughters, bequeathing them the “Côte Blonde” and “Côte Brune” (meaning “the blond” and “the brunette” hills), respectively. These names describe two territories within the appellation, each with very different soil. The wines grown on the Côte Blonde are elegant and feminine, whereas those from the Côte Brune are more robust and masculine.
Côte-Rôtie is the only appellation among the northern Côtes du Rhône crus that can blend Syrah, a particularly strong grape, with Viognier, the Condrieu white wine grape variety.
Wine tourism in the vineyard
Wine excursions from Lyon
Departing from Lyon, board a van that will take you to the vineyards of Côte-Rôtie, Condrieu or even further afield into the northern Rhône Valley. No need to worry over planning, let yourself be guided through the wineries and tastings. Here is our selection of excursions in the northern Côtes du Rhône:
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Wine excursions in the Cöte-Rôtie vineyard
Bike rides
Are you looking to combine sport and wine tastings? Treat yourself to the Wine and Ride experience. Departing from Condrieu, you set off to explore the Côte-Rôtie vineyards by pedal-assist electric bicycle or using your own bike. Lasting either half a day or a full day, the tour takes you to meet different winemakers, allowing you to visit the wineries and taste some of their wines. A unique experience to share as a couple or with friends.
Sporting activities
Discover Côte-Rôtie with Wine and Ride (half-day)
16 Chemin du camping - 69420 Condrieu
How to get there?
Would you rather visit the vineyard on your own terms? The easiest way to get there is by car. Consider carsharing or carpooling!
You can also take a TER train to Givors or Vienne followed by the 134 bus to Ampuis or Tupin, depending on what you wish to see and visit.
Once there, climb to the top of the hillsides and enjoy the breathtaking view over the Rhône Valley.
