Rhône Valley

France · Split into a peppery north and a warm, blended south.

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In short

The Northern Rhône makes structured, peppery Syrah, sometimes with a touch of white Viognier. The Southern Rhône makes warmer, fruitier blends led by Grenache, alongside Syrah and Mourvèdre.

Key grapes

Syrah (north); Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre (south).

Why it matters for WSET

A classic north-south contrast: single-grape Syrah in the north versus Grenache-based blends in the south.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Northern and Southern Rhône?

The north makes structured, peppery Syrah, often alone. The south makes warmer, fruitier Grenache-based blends, as in Châteauneuf-du-Pape.