Perched in the southern Drôme, Côtes du Rhône Villages Saint‑Pantaléon‑les‑Vignes draws its name—and its fame—from two centuries of local viticulture. In 1918, the town officially became Saint‑Pantaléon‑les‑Vignes in homage to its vineyards, and in 1969 it earned its Villages‑level AOC status.
Just 14 km east of Grignan and 24 km from Dieulefit, this compact 53‑hectare enclave sits on clay‑limestone slopes strewn with sandstone pebbles. Sheltered by nearby hills from the full force of the Mistral, vines enjoy short winters and long, scorching Mediterranean summers—conditions that concentrate flavors and build robust tannins.
Red wines center on Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre, bolstered by traditional Rhône varieties such as Carignan, Cinsault, Counoise, Muscardin, Picpoul Noir and the rare Brun Argenté. Whites and rosés, though less common here, draw on Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Roussanne, Clairette, Bourboulenc, Viognier and occasional Picpoul Blanc.
Saint‑Pantaléon reds captivate with deep garnet‑bronze hues laced with violet and black reflections. On the palate, they unfurl layers of complex red‑fruit aromas—think raspberry, wild cherry and plum—backed by sturdy structure and a long, persistent finish. These wines balance power with finesse, making them ideal companions for grilled meats, aged cheeses and Provençal stews.
As Rhône enthusiasts continue to seek out distinctive village expressions, Saint‑Pantaléon‑les‑Vignes stands out for its compact terroir, historic pedigree and richly textured wines that embody the intense character of southern Rhône growing.