The Original Syrah Wine Tour (2:00 pm – 6:30 pm) – Small Group Tour from Lyon

Explore the Rhone Valley on the Syrah Wine Tour from Lyon

The Original Syrah Wine Tour offers an engaging way to discover the Rhône region’s renowned vineyards, with a focus on Syrah and other local appellations. Priced at $124.96 per person, this 4.5-hour small-group experience departs from Lyon at 2:00 pm and concludes back in the city at 6:30 pm. It’s a popular choice, often booked 151 days in advance, highlighting its strong appeal among wine enthusiasts.

This tour combines wine tasting, scenic drives, and visits to historic and natural landmarks. With a maximum of 8 travelers, the experience feels intimate and allows for personalized attention from the expert guides, who speak both English and French. The tour is well-suited for those who enjoy learning about wine production and want a relaxed, engaging way to explore the Rhône’s beautiful landscape and viticulture.

Meet Your Guide at Lyon’s Bellecour Square

The adventure begins at the Office of Tourism and Congress of Metropolis of Lyon, located on Bellecour Square. At 1:50 pm, an English-speaking guide meets the group at the main entrance and leads everyone to a comfortable 8-seater minivan. The transportation is air-conditioned, ensuring a pleasant ride as you head out into wine country.

The meeting point’s proximity to public transportation makes it easy to access, and the small group size ensures a more personalized experience. Travelers find this initial gathering friendly and efficient, setting a relaxed tone for the afternoon ahead.

Scenic Drive Past the Roman Theater in Vienne

The first stop en route to the vineyards is Vienne, where a spectacular view of the Roman Theatre unfolds. This 2000-year-old site offers a glimpse into the region’s ancient past and provides great opportunities for photos. The guide shares insights about how the terroir and grape varieties influence the Northern Rhône wines.

Spending about 10 minutes at this viewpoint, visitors appreciate the combination of natural beauty and historical significance. The brief stop keeps the tour moving while offering a satisfying dose of culture and scenery.

Visiting Ampuis: The Heart of Syrah Production

Next, the tour crosses into the Ampuis town, known as the world capital of Syrah. Here, visitors see the “Cote Rotie” vineyards, perched on steep, terraced hillsides with angles ranging from 30 to 60 degrees. The drive along the terraced slopes of “Cote Brune” and “Cote Blonde” offers striking views of sun-drenched vineyards facing the Rhône River.

This area’s unique terracing and orientation are directly linked to the distinctive character of the wines produced here. The guide explains these details clearly, making the scene both visually impressive and educational.

Learning about Viognier in Condrieu

Passing through Condrieu, the tour highlights the Viognier grape, which nearly vanished in the 1960s but has since seen a revival. The stop provides context on how climate and tradition shape the appellations in this part of the Rhône.

While the main focus remains on Syrah, this stop enriches the understanding of the region’s diverse viticulture, including the white wines of Condrieu and their unique qualities. It’s a brief but informative mention that adds depth to the overall experience.

Tasting at Chavanay: First Family Winery Visit

Arriving at Chavanay, guests visit a family-run winery for a short guided tour of the facilities. This visit lasts approximately 45 minutes and includes the opportunity to sample 6 different wines from Cotes du Rhône, with some Condrieu, St Joseph, or Cote Rotie options among them.

This winery visit emphasizes authenticity and tradition, with guides sharing insights into winemaking techniques and vineyard management. The wine tasting showcases a range of reds and whites, providing a well-rounded sampling experience.

Second Winery Tour and Barrel Aging Secrets at Malleval

The tour continues with a visit to a second family winery in Malleval. Here, a private tour of the winery’s facilities reveals winemaking secrets, especially regarding barrel aging. This insight into traditional techniques adds a layer of appreciation for the craftsmanship involved.

Guests taste 5 more wines, including reds and whites from Cotes du Rhône, Condrieu, St Joseph, and Cote Rotie. The variety and quality of these wines reflect the region’s reputation for excellence and the careful crafting by passionate winemakers.

Scenic Drive Back to Lyon with Optional Stops

The journey concludes with a return drive to Lyon, arriving back at Bellecour Square by 6:30 pm. The group leaves with a deeper understanding of the region’s vineyards, wine styles, and landscape.

The small group setting allows for personalized conversations with the guide during the drive, making the experience feel tailored and engaging. The tour’s pacing is well-balanced, offering enough time at each stop without feeling rushed.

The Highlights of the Syrah Wine Tour from Lyon

This tour’s main attractions include sampling 10 regional wines, visiting two family wineries, and exploring historic and scenic spots like the Roman Theatre in Vienne and the terraced vineyards of Ampuis. Travelers find the expert guidance and storytelling especially valuable, as guides explain wine production details and regional history in an accessible way.

The inclusion of local winery visits and scenic drives sets this experience apart from more generic wine tastings. The small group size ensures a friendly, more intimate atmosphere, making it ideal for those seeking a personalized, educational, and relaxing afternoon.

Practical Details and Booking Insights

The tour includes a high-comfort minibus, guiding in both English and French, and wine tastings of 11 or 12 wines overall. No additional expenses are listed as included, and the free cancellation policy allows booking flexibility, with full refunds available at least 24 hours in advance.

Most travelers find this tour accessible, with no specific physical requirements mentioned. Its duration and pacing make it suitable for a wide range of visitors who are interested in wine, history, and scenic drives.

Who Will Appreciate This Wine Tour Most

This tour is perfect for wine lovers eager to explore the Rhone Valley’s famous appellations, especially Syrah. The expert guides and small-group format appeal to those who prefer education and personal interaction over large, impersonal tours.

It also suits visitors who appreciate scenic drives, historical sites, and local family wineries. Since the tour covers both wine tasting and sightseeing, it works well for travelers looking for a balanced, leisurely afternoon away from city hustle.

The Syrah Wine Tour from Lyon: A Practical Choice for Wine and History Enthusiasts

The Original Syrah Wine Tour offers an authentic and engaging way to discover the Rhône region’s vineyards. Its well-curated stops, knowledgeable guides, and delicious wines make it a reliable choice for small groups seeking depth and quality in their wine experience.

While the timing and pacing are carefully managed, those expecting a full-day experience might find this tour more suited for a relaxing afternoon. It is especially recommended for those interested in Syrah and local wine production techniques.

The combination of scenic landscapes, wine tastings, and historical sights ensures that this experience appeals to a wide range of travelers who want to connect with both the land and the wine of the Rhône.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $124.96 per person.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, from 2:00 pm to 6:30 pm.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from Lyon’s Bellecour Square and returns there at the end of the tour.

How many stops are there?
There are six main stops, including views at Vienne, visits to Ampuis and Condrieu, and two winery visits at Chavanay and Malleval.

What wines are sampled?
Guests taste around 10 wines, including Cotes du Rhone, Condrieu, St Joseph, and Cote Rotie.

Is transportation included?
Yes, high-comfort, air-conditioned minibus transportation is part of the package.

Are meals included?
No, the tour does not include meals, only tastings.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour’s pacing suits those comfortable with a moderate walking and driving schedule.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its small-group setting, expert guides, and visits to authentic family wineries with scenic and historic stops make it a memorable wine experience in Lyon.