Cotes du Rhone

The French AOC Cotes du Rhone extends from Vienna to Avignon in southern France. Its vineyard extends over 32,000 hectares (89% of red, 7% of rose and 4% of white). It enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot dry summers punctuated by some violent thunderstorms. Winters are mild with little rainfall, snow is rare. According to historical and archaeological studies, Cotes du Rhone is one of the oldest vine growing regions in the world. This AOC was created in 1937, but the recognition of local wines is much older. Since 1650, regulation protects their authenticity and quality. Less than a century later in 1737, all oak casks for sale must be marked by the initial "CDR", following an edict of the king. Today, Cotes du Rhone is the second largest vineyard in France.