Vaucluse – Tasting & tour in Saint Estève: Our Viognier whites

Discover the Charm of Château Saint Estève d’Uchaux’s Viognier Whites for $29

This 1-hour tasting tour at Château Saint Estève d’Uchaux in the South of France offers an engaging opportunity to learn about and taste four distinct white wines made from mass-selected Viognier. Priced at $29 per person, the tour is perfect for those interested in white wine varieties, family-run estates, and artisanal winemaking. The experience is accessible to wheelchair users and includes guided explanations in French, English, and German.

With a focus on Viognier, the flagship grape of the Rhône Valley, visitors benefit from expert insights into the production process. The highlight is the chance to visit historic cellars and a vaulted cellar, as well as sample wines that showcase different facets of Viognier. This tour appeals especially to wine enthusiasts, curious travelers, and anyone seeking a short yet informative experience in a charming family estate.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Price: $29 per person for a 1-hour experience
• Includes: Tasting of 4 white wines highlighting Viognier’s diversity
• Location: Historic château in the Rhône Valley, South of France
• Visiting: Cellars and vaulted cellar, with technical explanations
• Family estate: Operating since 1809, showcasing artisanal winemaking
• Accessibility: Tour is wheelchair accessible and offers explanations in multiple languages

The Château Saint Estève d’Uchaux Setting in the Rhône Valley

The tour takes place at a historic château in the picturesque Rhône Valley. This estate has a long family history, dating back to 1809, and embodies the artisanal spirit of small, family-run wineries. Visitors walk up a boxwood-lined path to reach the tasting cellar, creating a welcoming and authentic atmosphere.

The estate’s location in the South of France offers a peaceful, scenic backdrop for this focused wine experience. The estate’s cellar and vaulted cellar are key features of the visit, displaying traditional winemaking architecture and providing an intimate look at the estate’s storage and aging practices.

The Roots of Viognier at Château Saint Estève

The Viognier vines at Château Saint Estève were first planted in 1981 by Marc Français, a pioneer winemaker who recognized the potential of this aromatic white in the southern Côtes du Rhône. His independent spirit and the influence of Georges Vernay, a renowned winemaker from northern Rhône, helped shape the estate’s focus on Viognier wines.

The story of the vineyard’s development is shared by Florestan, the oenologist and grandson of Marc Français, who represents the eighth generation. Visitors learn about the history, vineyard management, and production principles behind each of the wines they taste, making the experience both educational and personal.

Tasting the Four Facets of Viognier

The core of the tour is the tasting of four different white wines, each revealing a distinct aspect of Viognier. These include a 100% Viognier selection, a “Tradition” blend, wines made from 40-year-old vines, and an ancestral vinification.

Each wine offers a unique profile, emphasizing the aromatic qualities and varietal character of Viognier. The air-conditioned tasting room provides a comfortable environment for guests to appreciate the wines at a relaxed pace. The guided explanations help clarify the production methods and flavor profiles associated with each wine.

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Exploring the Cellars and Vaulted Cellar

The tour of the estate’s cellars is a highlight, offering a glimpse into the traditional winemaking process. The vaulted cellar provides a historic ambiance, with technical explanations tailored to the interests of each visitor.

The cellar visit allows guests to see where the wines are aged and stored, adding a layer of understanding about how wine quality is maintained. The atmosphere of the estate enhances the appreciation of the care and craftsmanship involved in producing these aromatic whites.

The Winemaking Philosophy of Florestan and Family

Florestan, representing the eighth generation of winemakers, offers personal insights into the estate’s philosophy. He shares details about the production principles behind the wines and explains what makes Viognier special in their hands.

The estate’s dedication to artisanal methods and family tradition is evident in how they manage the vineyards and craft the wines. Visitors gain a deeper understanding of how history, passion, and technique come together to produce wines with fabulous aromas.

Practical Details and Logistics of the Tour

The meeting point is accessible by walking up a boxwood-lined path, with signs guiding guests to the tasting cellar. The tour duration is approximately 1 hour, with flexible starting times available depending on availability.

The experience is accessible to those with wheelchairs, and explanations are offered in French, English, and German. Children are welcome but cannot taste the wines; however, they are still encouraged to visit and enjoy the estate’s natural surroundings.

The tour includes air-conditioned facilities, a shaded parking area, and all tasting sessions are included in the $29 fee. Cancellation is free if made 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for planning.

Why This Tour Stands Out Among Rhône Valley Experiences

What makes the Vaucluse tasting tour at Château Saint Estève particularly appealing is its combination of history, family tradition, and wine expertise. The personal stories shared by Florestan and the estate’s long-standing commitment to Viognier set this experience apart.

The focus on four wines allows for a comprehensive exploration of Viognier’s aromatic and stylistic diversity. Plus, the cellar visit offers a rare glimpse into traditional winemaking in a historic setting. This experience provides a balanced, educational, and relaxing introduction to Rhône Valley whites.

Who Should Book This Viognier Tour?

This tour in Saint Estève is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to understand Viognier’s nuances, families seeking a cultural outing (children are welcome), and curious visitors interested in artisanal winemaking. It’s suitable for all ages except for wine tasting, and the accessible design ensures it’s welcoming to a diverse range of guests.

The price point of $29 offers excellent value for a focused, guided experience in a beautiful setting. It’s a short, yet rich opportunity to discover the aromatic profile of Rhône Valley whites and learn about family traditions in winemaking.

Château Saint Estève d’Uchaux’s Tasting Tour: The Final Word

This Viognier-focused tour combines a small-group atmosphere with expert guidance and hands-on insights. The historic estate, cellar visits, and sampling of four wines make for a well-rounded experience that fits easily into a day in Provence.

While it’s a short duration, the quality of information and personal storytelling add depth that appeals to visitors wanting a meaningful introduction to Rhône Valley whites. For those interested in family estates and artisanal production, this tour offers a valuable and memorable glimpse into the world of Viognier wines.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long is the tour?
  The tour lasts approximately 1 hour.

• What is included in the price?
  You receive a guided visit, cellar tour, and tasting of four white wines.

• Can children participate?
  Yes, children are welcome but cannot taste the wines.

• Is the tour accessible?
  Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

• In which languages are explanations provided?
  The tour is available in French, English, and German.

• Do I need to book in advance?
  Yes, reservations are recommended, and cancellation is free if made 24 hours in advance.

• Where is the meeting point?
  The meeting point is at the estate, accessible via a walk up a boxwood-lined path.

• What wines will I taste?
  The wines include 100% Viognier, the “Tradition” blend, wines from 40-year-old vines, and ancestral vinification.

• Is there parking available?
  Yes, shaded parking is provided.

• What makes this tour stand out?
  The combination of historic cellar visits, family history, and expert-led tasting of diverse Viognier styles makes this experience unique in the Rhône Valley.

  You can check availability for your dates here:
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