The charming medieval village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, known as ‘the Pope’s new castle,’ nestles in the sun-soaked southern part of the Rhône Valley. Its history dates back to the 14th century when the Popes moved to Avignon from Rome and built Châteauneuf-du-Pape as a summer residence for Pope Jean XXII. The connection between the church and wine production goes back centuries, with vines planted commercially as early as the 1300s to serve the church and nobility.
The Châteauneuf-du-Pape region has long been a source of prestigious, full-bodied wines. Official recognition came in 1935 when the vineyards were classified under the “appellation d’origine contrôlée” system. Most of the production consists of “spicy” red wines made from up to 13 permitted grape varieties, with Syrah, Grenache Noir, and Mourvèdre being the main ones. Here, producers mainly use Roussanne and Grenache Blanc to make white wines.
On this private exclusive excursion, a chauffeur will drive you through the scenic region, where you will learn about its history and organic winemaking philosophy. The famous ‘Galets Roulés,’ or round stones dating back to the Ice Age, scatter throughout the vineyard floors. These stones, along with the Mistral winds and sunshine, contribute to the quality of the wines.
Indulge in more than just the tastes of the vineyard. A specially curated Mediterranean-style lunch will provide a delightful culinary complement to your wine-tasting adventure, offering the flavors and aromas of the region in a relaxed, picturesque setting.
Get ready to taste some of the best wines at enchanting estates such as Guigal’s Château de Nalys, Château La Nerthe, and the atmospheric family-run cellar at Caves Saint Charles. Contact us today and start planning your bespoke tour of Châteauneuf-du-Pape!
Signature journey
Highlights include Luxury Transportation, VIP tour and tastings, and Gourmet Experience.
Day 1Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Château la Nerthe
This morning, your charming driver-guide will meet you in the lobby of your hotel or accommodation and sweep you away to the wine country. Get ready for a wonderful day with memorable wines!
t your first stop, Château de Nalys, a prestigious property making wines since the 16th century, you’ll discover it’s currently under the ownership of the Guigal family, veritable wine celebrities. The wine estate is located in the most picturesque setting possible, with views of the castle-crowned stone hamlet and Mont Ventoux on the horizon. You will enjoy a private guided tour of the winery, its neat little wine museum, and its pretty barrique cellars dating back to the 1700s. Château de Nalys is unusual in the region in that they still grow and blend the 13 permitted grape varietals, and you will learn about their winemaking techniques. Complete your delightful visit here with a private tasting of their entire range, including their Grand Vins, red and white.
An exceptional experience is in store for you next- a private wine tasting and lunch at Les Caves Saint Charles. This unique venue could not be more romantic- a 14th-century wine cellar the Pope later used for his wines. While the patrimony is incredible, the effervescent host- Guy Bremond- makes this place so distinctive. Guy is a Châteauneuf-du-Pape “Tasting Ambassador” and a certified master sommelier. You will indulge in a selection of wines in the candlelit cellar and feel like you are on a movie set! Conclude the visit here with a delicious, Mediterranean-style lunch prepared just for you on their sunny terrace.
After lunch, enjoy a digestive stroll around the hamlet of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. There are excellent photo ops, fun shopping ideas like an artisan chocolatier, and plenty of wine-shopping possibilities.
We have saved the best for last. A private, exclusive winery visit is next at the splendid Château La Nerthe. This property is truly breathtaking, with a Provencal style 18th-century Château, fascinating 16th-century cellars, and a mature, shady park with various viewpoints. Château La Nerthe is also one of France’s most respected wineries besides the wonderful place itself. You will take a private tour of the majestic Château and cellars and end your day tasting their emblematic red and white Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines, Château La Nerthe, Cuvée Les Cadettes, and Clos de Beauvenir.
Arrive back at your hotel after a wonderful day in wine country. We hope you had a stellar time today!
Cellar Tours private itineraries include chauffeur-led transportation, carefully selected hotels, winery appointments, restaurant planning, and practical support before and during your journey.
Depending on the destination and proposal, your tour may also include private guides, tastings, special experiences, cultural visits, regional transfers, and dining reservations.
Your custom proposal will clearly show what is included, what is optional, and what is not included.
Our custom itineraries include chauffeur-led transportation, carefully selected hotels, private winery appointments & tastings, restaurant planning, and support before and during your travel.
International flights, travel insurance, personal expenses, optional spa treatments, gratuities and meals or tastings not listed in your itinerary are usually not included unless specifically stated.
All itineraries are private and pre-arranged for your party.
Yes, 100%. Share mobility considerations, allergies, dietary preferences, and pacing needs early so we can adapt hotels, transport, restaurants, and visits wherever possible.
