Hermitage to Saint-Joseph – Land of Wine, Chocolate and the River Rhône

It’s supposed to be a secret – but did you know, it’s said the best wines come from vines that can see the Rhône? Which means that with their views from the steep slopes of Hermitage and Saint Joseph, the wines here must be very special indeed! Vines have long been cultivated on these hillsides along the Rhône from the Drôme to Ardèche: even the Romans knew that vines grown here would make excellent wine.  

Visit any of these prestigious appellations – Crozes-Hermitage, Hermitage and Saint-Joseph – and evidence of their illustrious history is never far away. From Tain Hermitage, we see the famous Hermitage Hill with its tiny chapel, once the refuge of a hermit and now a National Heritage site. The said hermit was clearly very discerning in his choice of refuge from the hustle and bustle of life: from here he had a superb view over the Rhône Valley, its hills carved out by the river and adorned with vines.  

A pedestrian bridge between Tain and Tournon-sur-Rhône links the two departments both physically and symbolically. The two share the same history, the same agricultural identity – and the same chocolate making tradition! Tain is the headquarters of Valrhôna, a chocolate company celebrated not only locally, but throughout France: chefs flock from all over to use the cocoa they select for their sumptuous sweet treats.  Chocolate and wine have plenty in common, particularly in terms of aroma, tastings and flavour pairings. Have you ever tried Valrhôna chocolate with a Hermitage or Saint Joseph AOC wine? Now’s your chance! 
 

Wine and chocolate pairings can be both unexpected and delicious. The Terres de Syrah Visitor Centre at Cave de Tain hosts tasting workshops introducing the concept and opening up a whole new flavour sensation. Enjoy a unique sensory journey, guided by an expert winemaker and one of Valrhôna's skilled chocolatiers, and learn to taste these two iconic local products like a pro.  

Aside from wine and chocolate, there’s another treat in store, inextricably linked to the river Rhône.  Walking or cycling along the river is one of the area’s highlights, but sailing aboard an elegant riverboat is an experience no visitor should miss. Depart from Tournon for a leisurely cruise along the river; admire the hillsides of Saint Joseph and Hermitage, and sample wines from three local appellations served with a selection of local produce.  But be warned: these cruises are a victim of their own success, so we advise you book in advance to secure your spot on this gourmet river experience.

Then why not round off the day in the chic and sumptuous Hôtel Fac & Spera, designed by the famous Maison Chapoutier? Enjoy unparalleled comfort with an indulgent stay for two, complete with a spa for the ultimate in relaxation. Did someone say paradise?  

Every February, Tain l’Hermitage dresses up in its Sunday best to host its very own wine fair. Held at the foot of the famous Hermitage Hill, the event has been a local institution for over 40 years, celebrating the best of the northern Côtes du Rhône. Some 60 winemakers come together each year to introduce wines from across this vast area, from Saint Joseph to Saint Péray, from Crozes-Hermitage to Cornas and from Hermitage to Côte Rôtie.  

The wines on offer are unbelievably diverse, and a gourmet food area explores an array of local products including ravioles, snails, truffles, cheese and honey. There are organised activities for young and old, with food/wine pairing workshops, cookery demonstrations and even an introduction to tasting for children. The perfect family day out!