Vinsobres

Discover Vinsobres, a hilltop village in Drôme Provençale.

Vinsobres is a charming village in Drôme Provençale that attracts wine and heritage enthusiasts. Located 9 kilometers from Nyons, this commune stretches across a hill between 180 and 500 meters above sea level.

The village owes its fame to its AOC red wine, which in 2006 became the first Côtes du Rhône Cru in Drôme Provençale. The historic motto “Vinsobres ou sobre vin, prenez-le sobrement” (Vinsobres or sober wine, drink it soberly) perfectly sums up the spirit of the place. This sentence was uttered in 1633 by Joseph Marie de Suarès, bishop of Vaison-la-Romaine. You can explore the vineyards, which cover 450 hectares and produce red wines renowned for their balance and aging potential.

Visit Vinsobres

In the center of the village, start with the temple, a former 12th-century priory. This monument dominates the village from the top of the hill. This former Catholic church offers a breathtaking view of the plain and the surrounding vineyards.

The Grand Rue leads you to the heart of the village. Discover the Paris Tower and Rue du Tripot during your stroll. The Passage des Templiers adds a historical note to your visit. The old fortified houses such as La Touche, Deurre, and the Château de Vérone bear witness to the medieval past.

Hiking

Hiking enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy on the many trails. The Cornuds trail offers an easy loop through vineyards and orchards with a beautiful view of Mont Ventoux. Around twenty circuits are available in the Baronnies Provençales Regional Nature Park. The Tour des Crêtes is one of the most popular hikes in the region, attracting many visitors.

Events

For events, don't miss the gourmet hike on Pentecost Sunday. Les Nuits Diviniques in summer is a chance to meet winegrowers in a friendly atmosphere. The agricultural fair in March features a Provençal market, exhibitions, and a funfair.
Every year in early August, the Vinsobres Festival is a wonderful celebration of local wine with music, entertainment, wine tastings, and Provençal cuisine. It's a great opportunity to chat with local winemakers.

Vinsobres wine

Vinsobres wine is a red wine with a controlled designation of origin that was awarded Côtes du Rhône Cru status in 2006. This former Côtes-du-Rhône Villages appellation became the first local Côtes-du-Rhône appellation in Drôme Provençale. The name Vinsobres carries with it the historical motto: “Vinsobres or sober wine, drink it soberly.” The climate of this village, combining sunshine, mistral winds, and high temperatures, gives body to this very interesting wine.

The red wines of this AOC come exclusively from blends of several grape varieties. Grenache Noir accounts for more than 50% of the vineyard (around 72%), complemented by Syrah (18%) and other varieties such as Mourvèdre, Cinsault, and Carignan. This composition respects the tradition of Vinsobres wines, which favor balance between varieties.

Grenache naturally dominates the blend as it thrives perfectly on this terroir. Syrah does particularly well on slightly cooler plots. This combination creates balanced red wines with silky, elegant tannins. The winemakers of Vinsobres have mastered the art of blending.

In terms of tasting, Vinsobres wines have a deep garnet color. When young, they develop aromas of cherry and blackcurrant, evolving towards blackcurrant and morello cherry jam, spices, pepper, and herbs. Rich and round, long on the palate, they are full-bodied and delicious. Their aging potential is 6 to 7 years. For purchasing, you will find the best prices by going directly to local producers or cooperative cellars.

The Vinsobraise cooperative and independent estates continue to uphold traditional expertise. More than a third of the vineyards are now cultivated using organic or biodynamic methods. This new generation of winemakers is ambitiously taking over the reins while respecting the unique identity of this Côtes du Rhône vintage. Enjoy it with our wonderful Provençal cuisine!