The appellation Côtes du Vivarais is an evocative expression of the Vallée du Rhône’s winemaking heritage, occupying 435 hectares along the right bank of the Rhône, at the very north-western edge of the southern Côtes-du-Rhône. Straddling the departments of Gard and Ardèche, this region produces predominantly red wines crafted from Grenache noir and Syrah, while still offering the complete spectrum of wine colors designed to be enjoyed in their youth.
In this unique terroir, vineyards are installed on a plateau that averages 250 meters in altitude on the Plateau des Gras. The landscape is intricately marked by the nodes of the Gorges de l’Ardèche, forming a natural bridge between the Rhône Valley and the nearby Cévennes. The soils here are a mosaic of calcareous terrains rich in gravel and marly limestone; these stones absorb the springtime warmth and then slowly release it during the night, a process that significantly benefits the vines. This warming dynamic is balanced by the refreshing influence of the Cévennes massif, which introduces cooler temperatures and additional humidity to the Mediterranean climate. Consequently, grape maturation is intentionally delayed, allowing the fruit to develop complexity and finesse.
The region’s winemaking philosophy is as layered as its landscape. For reds and rosés, the primary blend features Grenache noir and Syrah—varieties that adapt remarkably well to the slightly cooler conditions—often complemented by Cinsault and Carignan. Meanwhile, the white wines are delicately constructed using Grenache blanc, Marsanne, and Clairette, resulting in offerings that are predominantly dry yet refreshingly pleasant.
The style of Côtes du Vivarais wines is distinct and approachable: the reds boast vibrant notes of dark fruit with a delightful interplay of spices, the rosés captivate with their pronounced aromas and fruity freshness, and the whites are appreciated for their dry, crisp character. This appellation harmoniously blends tradition and innovation, offering a diverse portfolio that remains true to its Mediterranean roots while inviting wine lovers to explore its varied expressions.
Produced at a scale of 12,600 hectoliters per year, Côtes du Vivarais not only stands as a proud emblem of its regional identity but also as a gateway to understanding its neighboring appellations and sub-regions. With its historic legacy and dynamic terroir, it continues to charm enthusiasts with wines that are as intriguing as the landscape from which they originate.