Chateauneuf-du-Pape & the Southern Rhone
The Southern Rhône offers an impressive array of world-class wines. From the rich reds, to fresh whites and elegant rosés, there is something for everyone. This morning you will have time on your own to visit Avignon and the Popes' Palace before being escorted north by private coach. Your guide for the afternoon is an American-born and French-trained superstar sommelier. His goal will be to educate you and your palate on what makes Châteauneuf-du-Pape such a classic wine region. In the progress you will also discover a couple lesser known regions often kept secret by the locals: Lirac and Tavel.
The first stop will be Domaine de la Mardorée. This relatively recent estate was founded by the Delorme Family in 1986 with only 12 acres of vines in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Today they make wines from over 120 acres of vineyards over 38 plots and 5 appellations. Here you will discover more in depth the terroir of their appellations, their unique approach to winemaking and most importantly, their delicious wines! Your guided tasting will cover a selection of their best reds, whites and rosés from Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Lirac and Tavel which is considered by many as the best rosé in France.
Next, enjoy lunch served at nearby chef-owned restaurant, La Table de Sorgues. The menu, made with fresh ingredients and full of flavorful foods, is paired with a selection of regional wines.
After lunch you will visit the highly respected, award-winning, Domaine de la Janasse. With wines consistently rated in the 90's by Wine Advocate and Wine Spectator, Janasse has become synonymous with excellence in the wine world. You will enjoy a tour then taste a range of their best wines. Following your tasting you will return directly to the ship.