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Full Day History of Provence
Walk & Wine Tour
The Full Day History of Provence & Wine Tour comprises of a morning walking history tour with my wife and part-time historian, Janet Henderson, followed by an afternoon wine tour visiting the vineyards and cellars of two leading wine estates.
The guided walking tour recounts a compelling and colourful tale, providing you with the historical context to appreciate Vaison-la-Romaine – a jewel in the crown of papal Provence. The landscape, fountains, churches, castles, mansions, alleyways and squares acquire another dimension as we imagine the events and people that have left an indelible mark on Vaison and the land of the Popes. Listen to a fascinating blend of history, folk-tale and legend that makes the defining events of the last three millennia spring to life and explains how these events have shaped the cultural identity of the area.
Provides you with a relaxed and engaging summary of some of the major events in the history of the area beginning with the Greeks, the Celts and the Romans, moving on to medieval, feudal times and continuing through to modern times, including the Renaissance and the French revolution. It uses Vaison’s Roman ruins, Romanesque cathedral and medieval town as a beautiful and dramatic backdrop.
I can recommend and book a restaurant for you in advance of your visit or we can book something on the day. I meet up with you after lunch for the afternoon leg of the tour.
We visit the vineyards and cellars of two leading wineries in the Rasteau, Gigondas, Cairanne or Vacqueyras areas. As we visit the scenic vineyards, I explain the local appellation and the local wine-growing culture – in particular the notion of “terroir”. I explain key elements of the winemaking process as we visit the cellars. We taste four to five wines per estate during which I explain the tasting characteristics of the Rhône grape varieties, the ageing potential of the wines and the varying influences of the terroir and cellar methods on the wines that we taste.
Transport
Morning Meeting Point :
The tour commences at 9.30am at a designated meeting point in Vaison-la-Romaine.
Own Transport Option :
You require your car to get to Vaison-la-Romaine in the morning and then to the designated wine tour meeting point after lunch. If you opt for the own transport option and I have space in my car then I could transport you from the meeting point.
Otherwise you would use your own vehicle (following me) for the tour. The distances between the vineyards and the cellars is usually no more than a few minutes.
Full Day Rhône Wine Discovery Tour: Four Wine Estates*
3/4 Day Châteauneuf/Gigondas Tour: Three Wine Estates*
Half Day Tour : Two Wine Estates*
Full Day Provencal Cooking Class & Wine Tour*
Half Day History of Provence Walk
Half Day Wine Walk & Picnic