June 5-8, 2025

RHÔNE

Blending Escape

Join us as we embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting Rhône Valley.

Explore this breathtaking region as we discover its heritage sites, legendary wineries and remarkable art collections. The Rhône offers historic châteaux and domaines, along with intimate conversation with winemakers and artisans – and of course, being one of the cradles of French cuisine, a plethora of unforgettable gastronomic experiences.

THE ITINERARY

DAY 1 - THURSDAY, JUNE 5

BIENVENUE

Welcome to the Rhône! Upon arrival at Lyon-Saint-Exupéry Airport, you’ll be transferred to the charming luxury of the Hotel Crillon le Brave, set in the picturesque heart of Vaucluse.

 

Orientation tasting

Led by local expert Loïc Lamy, we will dive right into the legendary wines of the Rhône. Home of some of the world’s greatest Syrah, as well as a host of other fascinating grape varietals and blends, the Rhône will quickly captivate your heart and palate. This introduction will set the stage for an unforgettable journey of flavor and discovery.

 

Dinner at the hotel’s restaurant La Table du Ventoux

With a breathtaking view of Mont Ventoux, we will dine on some of the region’s most famous specialties, prepared by the chef using locally sourced ingredients.

DAY 2 - FRIDAY, JUNE 6

VENTOUX & GIGONDAS EXPLORATION

 

Blending session and lunch at Château Pesquié

We’ll begin the day with fresh palates, first tasting then blending our own red Ventoux wines with our winemaking partner in the region. Frederic and Alexandre are the latest generation to run their family’s organically farmed estate, and their passion and expertise are immediately apparent. They’ll guide us through blending our own Ventoux Rouge with their estate wines as our base, then we will enjoy a leisurely lunch in their idyllic garden, soaking in the beauty of Ventoux.

 

Rest and relaxation at the hotel

Unwind back at the hotel, where you can go for a swim in the tranquil pool, a walk around the grounds, or simply relax in your room before the evening’s activities.

 

Private tasting at Domaine de Montirius

This 6th generation family estate is completely biodynamic and organic. They’ll take us through their beautiful lineup of Gigondas and Vacqueyras and explain the philosophy of biodynamic vine growing, as we nibble on local charcuterie.

 

Dinner in Gigondas at Michelin-starred L’Oustelet

In the lovely town of Gigondas sits this culinary gem, where we will enjoy a special menu and a perfectly paired regional wine selection chosen just for us. Prepare for a truly memorable meal.

DAY 3 - SATURDAY, JUNE 7

VACQUEYRAS AND A FAREWELL DINNER

 

Private tour and tasting at Domaine du Château des Tours

Start the day with an exclusive visit to Domaine du Château des Tours, part of the legendary Château Rayas family of estates. Taste your way through their world-class Vacqueyras and Côtes-du-Rhône wines while enjoying the elegance of this historic property.

 

Lunch in Orange at Au Petit Patio

Nestled in the heart of the historic town of Orange, this delightful eatery is known for its lovely courtyard-style dining space. Our lunch will highlight the best of Provençal cuisine, featuring dishes crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients that reflect the vibrant flavors of the Rhône – and matched with some of its finest wines.

 

Private guided tasting at Domaine Villeneuve in Châteauneuf-du-Pape

If there was any doubt that Chateauneuf-du-Pape is among the world’s great wine regions, Stanislas Wallut will help dispel that doubt. This passionate winemaker manages his family’s organic and biodynamic estate, and loves to guide visitors through his stunning lineup of character-filled wines.

 

Rest and relaxation

We’ll have time to rest up for our fittingly celebratory final dinner.

 

Farewell dinner

We’ll finish our adventure with a feast befitting this glorious region, in a stunning location with a private chef and a selection of special bottles we’ve chosen just for you.

DAY 4 - SUNDAY, JUNE 8

AU REVOIR

Departures via Lyon, or continue on for further exploration.

THE DETAILS

How to arrive

Guests should fly into Lyon-Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS) and The Vines will arrange transfers (not included in trip cost) to the hotel.

Accommodations

Hotel Crillon le Brave, a true gem in the South of France, nestled on a hilltop in the picturesque village of Crillon le Brave.

Winemaking

Château Pesquié, in the insider’s favorite appellation Ventoux, represents three generations of the Chaudière family, passionate growers committed to showing what their appellation can achieve. They enjoy an extraordinary Southern Rhône micro-climate, influenced by the mountains, the altitude and the cool nighttime temperatures. This terroir is geologically rich and dominated by limestone, at the foot of the biodiversity of Mont Ventoux. The vineyards are certified organic, and current generation Alexandre and Frédéric tend their vines according to biodynamic principles. All of this combines to produce balanced and elegant wines that perfectly reflect the special place where they are born.

Maximum number of guests

20

PRICING INFORMATION

Member Double $15,000
Member Single $11,100
Guest Double $20,700
Guest Single $14,800
Member Double $15,900
Member Single $11,900
Guest Double $21,600
Guest Single $15,700
Member Double $16,400
Member Single $12,400
Guest Double $22,100
Guest Single $16,200

The trip cost includes all accommodations, meals, wines, local transportation and group activities. Guests are responsible for the cost of their flights and airport transfers to the hotel.

 

Please note that Vines itineraries are highly unique and customized, and the overall schedule, events and timing are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances beyond our control.