ULTIMATE DAY GUIDE TO THE BEST SMALL WINERIES IN CHȂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE

Last Updated on 6th July 2024 by Bejal

When it comes to wines, there is no name that comes with the global reputation and finesse as the southern-French region of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The name simply echoes quality, prestige and with a history and strict code of winemaking dating back centuries, this is a wine of popes and regality. The region is cuddled in a plethora of descending vine lined establishments, and a splendid community of local independent wineries in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, who supply some of the finest wines in the world from family owned wineries. 

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Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s location means it is easy to visit and experience this region. It’s full of history, charm and visitors can taste some of the most exquisite wines the region has to offer. It is also within easy reach from the historical town of Avignon.

//Related Article: The Ultimate Guide to Driving Through Provence in a Week

This guide to discovering the best independent wineries in Châteauneuf-du-Pape focuses on immersion of a more personalised yet laid back itinerary approach to spending time enjoying the landscape and workings of the region and also  getting to know local wine-producers and their processes on a more personal level, tasting the wines of their vineyards and wineries, where you can learn the story behind each glass of the perfectly poured grape elixir. Indulge in the history, family stories and tales which date back centuries and learn the complexities, trials and tribulations of the labour that has been involved  to deliver the wines of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

Look out for the added tips and recommendations on visiting Châteauneuf-du-Pape as a day trip with a Sommelier, organised through a local vineyard. How the itinerary is tailor made with great flexibility so that the day consists of what you may want to achieve from your experience. The guide also aims to answer questions that you may have in terms of accommodation, logistics and dining options.

Where is Châteauneuf-du-Pape Located?

Châteauneuf-du-Pape is located in the commune of Vaucluse in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region in South eastern France. The actual village or small town of Châteauneuf-du-Pape is three km, just shy of two miles East of the Rhône River and approximately 12 km, 7.5 miles North of Avognon. This is just one of the reasons why Avignon makes for a great base in Provence.

What Does Châteauneuf-du-Pape Mean?

In English  Châteauneuf-du-Pape translates to ‘Poes New Castle’. Fun fact – the ‘du Pape’ was only added in 1893 by locals who thought this made the area sound more prestigious therefore attracting more tourists – well they were obviously right!! Just incase you’re wondering about the  Châteauneuf part, no there are not nine castles here!

Why Visit Châteauneuf-du-Pape?

The history of Châteauneuf-du-Pape dates back to the fourteenth Century. It said to be the first place in France that concentrated on appellations, protecting the quality of wines made in the commune of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and its surroundings.

The terrain or ‘terroir’ is a mix of sand, limestone and gaelt-strewn soil. Coupled with it’s southern France location, plus a strong westerly gust, adds the distinct flavour of wines produced in the region.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape has around 3,200 hectares of vineyards, which sounds like a lot! The area and town are guided by a strict code of viticulture and tradition to produce the quality of offerings we deem synonymous with wines of this region.

Located around 20 km and a 30 minute drive from the historic city of Avignon, Châteauneuf-du-Pape was the summer residence of the Popes. Popes resided at the Chateau in teh area until 1377 which was when the Papacy went back to Rome. Unfortunately the castle burned down during religious wars and was severely damaged again in 1944.

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When Is The Best Time To Visit Chateauneuf du Pape?

The main visiting season in Chateauneuf du Pape and the Rhône Valley is from April to October, but it’s important to note that many wineries, restaurants and accommodation options may close their doors outside of this period. Naturally July and August are the busiest months and it means the tiny town of Chateauneuf du Pape can become rather crowded, so be sure to book tastings, guides, restaurants and guides well in advance.

If you are intending to see the harvest of grapes in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, then the best time to witness this is from September through to early October. We visited in late September and harvest season was in full swing.

How To Get To Châteauneuf-du-Pape & Where is it located?

By far the best way to get to Châteauneuf-du-Pape is by car. The flexibility allows for so much more discovery and at your own pace without having to rely on public transport times and structure.

Be-lavie Tip: Visiting Châteauneuf-du-Pape naturally involves visiting wineries and partaking in tastings, we’d advise against driving yourself for obvious reasons. Without having to worry about driving you will be able to enjoy the experience and have a relaxed day out discovering the region and its offerings.

Here are transport options to help weigh up what’s best for you (Assuming a base in Avignon).

• Book a tour independently through a domain – this option will generally include a day tour of a number of vineyards with a driver/Sommelier. Domaine L’Odylée can compile tailor-made packages based on your preferences. More on opting for this type of visit below.

• Book a Taxi – booking a taxi or Uber is easy from your base in Provence. From Avignon, an Uber can take around 20 minutes and would cost between €30-€40 depending on traffic.

• Bus – A bus from Avignon Central station to the small town of Châteauneuf-du-Pape would take about 1 hour 15 minutes and cost in the region of €4 each way.
• Train – Avignon TGV station is located outside the city walls, a train from Avignon to Sorgues – Châteauneuf-du-Pape takes around 40 minutes one way. There are faster service available which may take between 15-20 minutes to Sorgues – Châteauneuf-du-Pape. It’s good to remember that  the town is still around 7 km away and you may need a taxi.

These options illustrate that for convenience and ease that hiring a car or booking a guided experience from Avignon is a more seamless experience.

How To Get Around The Wineries in Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Getting around the wine region will most definitely require transport access in terms of a car or taxi. The town is quite small and it’s possible to easily walk around, pop into the eateries, shops and other points of interest.

If you have accommodation booked for a night or two in the area, it’s possible to walk to the small town of Châteauneuf-du-Pape or even opt to take a taxi or transport your hotel may provide. 

Châteauneuf-du-Pape Wine-Related Terminology – Wineries in Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Some terminology which may help navigate around tastings and winery visits in the Châteauneuf-du-Pape region. 

• Vineyard – where the grapes grown to be harvested and produced into wine, different to a winery.
• Winery – is licensed to produce and seal wine for consumption. Everything in the winemaking process will happen here. All the bottling facilities, warehouses and the equipment needed for the winemaking process.
• Domaine – the land or estate that is involved in wine making.
• Appellation – designates the geographical area in which the grapes are grown, This is included on the bottle so it’s recognisable which appellation’s rules were followed in growing the fruit.

What To Know About The Wines of Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Before embarking on. a visit to Châteauneuf-du-Pape, it may be helpful to know a little about the wine-making process and grapes.

• In Châteauneuf-du-Pape 95% of wine produced in the region is red with a high alcohol content of between 13% and 15%. The alcohol content must be 12.5% to comply with appellation rules and regulations.

• The style of winemaking focusses on a balance between the high sugar content in the grapes with tannins and phenols, present in red Châteauneuf-du-Pape.  
• The most prevalent grape in the region is the Grenache, then comes the Syrah and Mourvèdre. Much of the principal grape varieties in the region, produce a low yield, and is critical to the performance as these grapes make soft wines in large amounts.

• Grenache grapes are prone to oxidation in porous wooden barrels and in  Châteauneuf-du-Pape, oak casks are not instead, Grenache are vinified in big cement tanks. Other grapes are vinified in large old barrels or ‘foudres’ and don’t add the oak-like quality or flavour of the smaller oak barrels,

• The unique terroir of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape, is what makes wines of the region stand with the rocky soils, rocks and pebbles, in the west, reflecting light and create a warming climate to ripen the fruit.

Red Wines

There are more than 300 wineries in Châteauneuf-du-Pape but some of the most exclusive we discovered are Château Mont-Redon, Château La Nerthe, and Domaine de Beaurenard.

Grenache grapes are referred to as the ‘King of the Rhone’ and are mainly used in the the production of local wines. Châteauneuf-du-Pape became the first AOC wine in 1936 where 13 different grape varieties were allowed to be used due to their characteristics, fragrance, freshness and longevity. Something we learnt is that, Grenache is always the base in the blend of Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines.

The red and white grape varieties include Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Cinsault, Clairette, vaccarèse, Bourboulenc, Roussanne, Counoise, Muscardin, Picpoul, Picardan and Terret noir.

The red wines of the region exude a flavour of rich, red and black cherries, strawberries and raspberries plus a earth-like spicy velvet nuance. These have to be aged for a lot longer before they can be drunk.

White Wine

Only 7% of vineyards toffer the sweet or even citrus white grape varieties. One example is Beaucastel Vieille Vignes, which is known to many global wine connoisseurs for its incredible aging abilities.

White grape varieties in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, include Grenache blanc, Bourboulenc, Clairette blanche, Picardan, Roussanne, and Picpoul. Many of the white wines are made to be enjoyed young and bring a level of freshness to the table as well as anise or fennel-like notes.

Discovering Wineries & Vineyards in Châteauneuf-du-Pape: A Guided Tailor-Made Itinerary

If this is your first-visit to Châteauneuf-du-Pape, planning is essential to make sure your experience is enjoyable and you have researched which wineries and vineyards you are visiting. Things like transport and if staying more than a day, accommodation can be essential in making the most of your time here. 

There are of course many ways you can visit Châteauneuf-du-Pape from independently booking vineyards tours or even booking a tour from well known companies which curate small group packages at affordable rates to  include  transport, a guide as well as wine tastings. 

For a more personal and intimate experience, how about booking directly with a domain and having a full day itinerary tailor made just for you? This is exactly what our recommendation would be by contacting Domaine L’Odylée https://lodylee.com/en/home-domaine-de-lodylee/

Be-lavie Tip: It’s worth asking around before booking a Châteauneuf-du-Pape tour for personal recommendations, your accommodation may have some domaines they work with. Our recommendation came from Lionel, our Airbnb host at Le Lieu apartments. 

We contacted Domaine L’Odylée and conversed with the owner directly who put together an itinerary for the day with us which also included their own winery of course. The other wineries were put together by Domaine L’Odylée and their experience in the area as this was our first visit and we wanted a taste of the region. The advantage here is that this kind of experience comes with a personal touch with our requests that were taken into consideration and included throughout the day. The pace was our own and we were accompanied by an experienced sommelier who also doubled up as a driver.

Itinerary Overview

• 09:30 pick-up at our base in Avignon
• Drive to Chateauneuf du Pape (30 minutes)
• A quick stop at The Pope’s Castle and the man grapes of the region.
• Winery 1 Domaine Durieu
• Winery 2 Domaine de Beaucastel
• Lunch at Le Comptoir de la Germaine
• Quick walk around Chateauneuf du Pape village 
• Winery 3 Domaine de I’Odylée 
• Winery 4 Domaine de Mourchon
• Drive back to base in Avignon around 18:30

Full Day Itinerary Details – Wineries in Châteauneuf-du-Pape

The Popes Castle 

As previously mentioned the ruins of the medieval castle take pride of place, above the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and is a dominant feature of the landscape. Built in the 14th Century for Pope Jean XXII, it’s worth a visit for the surrounding panoramic views. 

Winery 1: Domaine Durieu

With the estate located in the heart of the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, this 37 hectare vineyard is a family owned affair, created by Paul Duerieu in 1976. In the early 2000’s his two sons, Vincent and Francois have taken over the running. 

36 hectares of their estate is dedicated to the production of red wine with one hectare used to grow the grapes for red wine. Much of the rocky terroir is responsible for the great quality of grenache grapes. 

We headed straight for Domaine Durieu Cellar which is located in the village, in a historical Senozan’s Marquis house, where we had the opportunity to taste an array of the wines, seven tastings in total, they produce as well as learn some history and background about the brand.

Winery Location: Map I Website: Domaine Durieu

Winery 2: Domaine de Beaucastel

This domaine makes some of the most famous wines in the whole of Chateauneuf du Pape that includes Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah as well as the not so well-known Counoise and Cinsaut varieties.

As with any domaines in the region, they do dedicated tasting experiences with educational sessions, history of the terroir and what differs their winemaking process to other wineries.

We tasted a variety of their wines at their cellar in the centre of Chateauneuf du Pape, we where guided through the history, appellation and characteristics.

Wineray Location: Map I Website: Domaine de Beaucastel

Lunch Stop:

We would strongly advise stopping for a lunch break for 90-120 minutes. The morning involves tasting quite a few wines, at this point we’d probably had 14 tastings, you can discard the wine you can’t drink in your glass, which does seem like a waste of good wine!! After all you will need to line your stomach ready for the afternoon domaine visits.

Recommended and reserved by our Sommelier and guide, Alex, Le Comptoir de la Germaine is an offshoot of its Michelin Starred establishment. It’s a contemporary set up with an open kitchen running down one side and a wonderful terrace with vineyard views. Enjoy a glass of some more wonderful Châteauneuf-du-pape as you tuck into food from a wide variety of dishes but we were most impressed with their delicious Italian selection of vegetarian offerings.

Restaurant Location: Map I Website:  Le Comptoir de la Germaine 

Take a post lunch stroll around the village of Châteauneuf-du-pape before heading a little out of the town for the next domaine.

Winery 3: Domaine de I’Odylée 

The Odylee Estate was created in 2015  by Odile Couvert and her family, producing a wonderful range of red, white and rose wines on its unique soil appellation. The 15 hectare vineyard has a beautiful location nestled in the heart of the Vallée du Rhône, it faces the delicate Dentelles de Montmirail and the famous Mount Ventoux It’s good to note like with all the other domaines, L’Odylee is fully organic certified. 

It’s interesting to learn the history of the different areas on the vineyard here, Carignan are the oldest vines, planted in 1945, with Syrah being about 50 years old, Grenache are quite young together with the Vionier, which were planted in 2017.

One of the unique things about Domaine de I’Odylée is that is offers guesthouses within its estate complete with access to a garden and pool. The estate can accommodate 35 beds in contemporary, modern tastefully decorated spaces, which are in traditional keeping of the exterior. 

Our visit included a tasting of a selection of their wines, with the history and production processes. We were even able to taste straight from the vats to experience the wine at different stages of its journey. 

During your visit, this is a great property to take a walk around, a perfect tranquil space and one of the nicest vineyard experiences.

Other wine tourism options at Domaine de I’Odylée:

• It’s also possible to book in for a wine creation workshop where you are able to have a tour of the estate and be involved in the bottling of your own wine with the expert help of the winemakers.

• Small group wine tastings including four domaines and Avignon hotel round-trip for for €200 per person. Contact the domaine for details or further information.

Winery Location Map I Website: Domaine de L’Odylee

Winery 4: Domaine de Mourchon

With a picturesque setting, between the stunning village of Séguret and Mont Ventoux. Domaine de Mourchon was created in 1998 by the McKinlay family. Although this vineyard had around 20 hcetares of mature vineyards, there was no actual area to make wines, so in 2000 a winery was added.

The Vineyard is terraced and at an altitude of 250 meters where organic techniques and traditional methods of vinification, combined lead to a well structured wine. In 2020 the domaine was fully certified as completely organic.

The terroir here is predominantly limestone and clay, the vines at Domaine de Mourchon include, Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault, and Carignan, grown on the terraces which start at 270 metres elevation right upto 350 metres.

The tasting process is quite personal and fascinating here as with each domaine, there is such a great variety in the wines which includes the history and production process as well. 

We’d recommend going to have a look at the wine production area which as it’s a purpose- built space 

Winery Location: Map I Website: Domaine de Mourchon

Advantages of Taking A Tailor-Made Small Wineries in Châteauneuf-du-Pape Tour

There are many advantages to opting for a tour of this kind and definitely worth considering and weighing up what your personal priorities are when visiting.

• Transport is provided and included in the day tour.
• You can travel easily between vineyards. 
• You have a fully qualified Sommelier (wine expert) with you to answer all your burning questions about the region and wines.
• Your guide and Sommelier can help with creating an individualised itinerary and provide great lunch locations.
• The whole day has a more personable approach and you can meet directly with the winemakers.
• The tour is just for you and your party.
• Impromptu stops at any points for anything of interest or photos opportunities are no problem.
• Everything is at your pace and doesn’t feel rushed like in a group tour.
• You are supporting smaller winemakers and vineyards.
• You can buys wine at your leisure at any of the vineyards.
• Tasting experiences are tailored to your preferences with the kind you like.
• Great option for a special occasion or honeymoon day experience. 

The Cost of A Personalised Wineries in Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Comparing costs is a natural thing to do but for a memorable day filled with the level and quality of inclusions you get, this tailor-made package is quite the snatch at £200 per person. Lunch is not included and you’d pay for that as well as anything else you wish to purchase.

Many tours will charge in the region of £100 offer a half dayvisit to the region with three tastings at two wineries. With the Domaine L’odylee day tour we visited four vineyards with around seven tastings each.

Tips On A Day Trip Wine Tasting In Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Take a couple of canisters of water. You will need plenty of water in between those tastings and vineyard visits. Plus it its a warm day, hydration is key

• You may want to take some bread or light snacks for in between the tastings to help with keep the alcohol down.
• Take sunscreen and a hat – it can get pretty warm especially if you’re hanging out on the estate vineyards.
• Make reservations at all the wineries ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
• Ensure a reservation is made for lunch or dinner if you intend to eat, we would recommend lunch at the least.
• All vineyards take major credit cards if you want to purchase any wines. 
• Always keep a small amount of cash with you incase of emergencies.

What Else Can You Do In Châteauneuf-du-Pape?

You may not have the time with just one day in Châteauneuf-du-Pape but you can always switch out some of the wineries for some other activities if you’re not a big wine drinker, The regions biggest pull is the wine however!

The Musée du Vin – Maison Brotte

Established in 1931, Maison Brotte is a family-owned winery steeped in heritage that spans five generations. The museum itself has many artifacts used in wine-making such as presses, foudres, grape treading instruments. The museum is nicely organised into areas representing the different stages of wine making.

The vintners at Maison Brotte are renowned for making incredible wines which has a strong focus on eco-friendly practices and second to none quality.

This is somewhere we will add to our return list as we ran out of time on our visit.

Maison Brotte Location: Map I Website I

Get priority tickets for Maison Brotte entry and wine tastings

Taste Wine in a Cave

You can taste Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine from different wineries if you wish and one of the best ways to do this especially if you’re in the village is by visiting the local caves. 

We walked past La Cave de Mathias, Mathias Cave, which seems to be quite popular and offers wine tasting sessions and also options to buy bottles of wine.

La Cave de Mathias Location: Map l Website 

Châteauneuf-du-Pape Castle

It’s a bit of a steep walk, but manageable and you will be rewarded by the wonderful views from the ruins of the castle when you get there. You can read more about the history of the 14th century castle built for Pope Jean XXII and how it ended up in ruins further up this article. 

Castle Location: Map

Explore The Town of Châteauneuf-du-Pape

A great way to get a feel for allocation is to walk the small cobbled streets and wander upon tiny courtyards and squares with fountain centerpieces, Châteauneuf-du-Pape really is a small town so it doesn’t take long to walk around and pop into a few shops to get a feel for life here.

Hotels in Châteauneuf-du-Pape

If you are staying in Châteauneuf-du-Pape for more than a day or planning a tour from the region, look for hotels that suit your budget and price point below. Note your day tour can always be customised from your accommodation.

Our hotel recommendations include:

• Hostelleries do Château des Fines Roches // A luxury castle with a vineyard location. Check images & rates 
• Hotel La Mère Germaine // A beautifully contemporary-finished hotel with views over the Rhone Valley.. Check images & rates 
• La Pergola // A cute property offering Bed & Breakfast in the centre of the town. Check images & rates 

Alternatively, search for your style of hotel below

Booking.com

// Related Post: 14 Beautiful Historic Places to Stay in Avignon, Provence

Where To Eat in Châteauneuf-du-Pape- Wineries in Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Here are some great lunch and dinner recommendations which would be best reserved to avoid disappointment. 

• Le Comptoir de la Germaine // An offshoot of its Michelin Starred restaurant and with a beautiful terrace space, this contemporary restaurant with an open kitchen has a delicious menu. It is also one of the more vegetarian friendly restaurants. We’d recommend a seat outside to get a panoramic view of the vineyards.

Le Comptoir de la Germaine Location: Map

• ​​La Mère Germaine // Michelin starred and renowned amongst the stars, it has the founder Germaine Vions name with food that has an exquisite reputation. Vegetarian choices are limited but can be prepared on request and prior notification. They serve up the best vintages of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape region. Scanning through the menu, carnivores, will be spoilt for choice with dishes like saffron infused red mullet.

La Mère Germaine Location Map

• Le Verger des Papes // Located on a hilltop above the village, Le Verger des papes is built in the historic site of the Popes; summer residence. The chefs and Estevenin brothers specialise in creative, inventive cuisine sourcing the freshest of local and seasonal ingredients. Dishes are of a Provençal style and flavour with of course the most delightful setting of rolling vineyards surrounding the property.

Le Verger des Papes Location: Map

The Best Small Wineries in Châteauneuf-du-Pape Round-up

Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a beautifully stunning region which has much to offer as a day tour destination but also for longer if you have the  luxury of time. The landscape, history, culture, wine making, education and tasting of course make visiting, a wonderful addition to any Provence itinerary. 

The option of a guided day tour with a local winery will hopefully entice you to an easily accessible way to discover the region, for those who love a more local and personal touch to discovering and exploring new destinations.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape is fully geared towards wine tourism with its small town catering for a wide variety of accommodations, eateries as well as additional experiences with regards to options with winery tastings. It’s a land of precision, attention to detail, a noteworthy sustainable attitude and a welcome to discovering their way of wine production.

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