Tavel

One of the oldest appellations in France, Tavel produces deep, rich, powerful rosés that are much bolder than the pale-pink numbers found in Provence. Said to be favored by kings and popes, the region’s wines—made primarily from Grenache and Cinsault, with a bit of Syrah and Mourvedre—are popular with connoisseurs all over the world.

The area also offers a variety of sights: The village of Tavel is known for its scenic fountains and sandstone buildings, and the region’s 10-mile Route du Vignoble is a popular destination for hikers. You can visit Tavel on its own or take a full-day tour of the Rhône’s top appellations, including Tavel, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and Ventoux.

• Dozens of wineries in Tavel have tasting rooms that you can visit; if you don’t have a designated driver, exploring as part of a guided tour is the best and safest option.

• Many tasting rooms do not serve food, so you may want to pack your own snacks.

• Be mindful of your pace when sipping: Tavel’s rosés can be deceptively high in alcohol—up to 14 or 15%—owing to the region’s hot climate.

• Tavel rosés pair well with the region’s fare, including seafood, aioli, and ratatouille.

• The town of Tavel is a great jumping-off point for travelers who want to explore nearby sights like the UNESCO-listed Pont du Gard, the medieval town of Uzès, and Nîmes.

Tavel is located just northwest of Avignon, along the Rhône River between the Pont d’Avignon and the Pont du Gard. The best way to reach the area is by car or taxi, and it’s roughly a 20-minute drive from the city along the D6480 or the D177. Alternatively, guided tours make exploring the region even simpler.

The region can be bakingly hot in the summer months (and quiet for much of the month of August, when many head to the coast); visit in spring or autumn to take advantage of the scenery in slightly cooler weather. Harvest in Tavel typically takes place in late August and early September, though the exact time varies slightly year to year; if you visit then, you’ll discover the region at its busiest and most action-packed.

If you’re looking to experience the best of Tavel, there are a number of local producers whose wines are worth seeking out. Famous importer, wine merchant, and author Kermit Lynch favors the Château de Trinquevedel, now a fourth-generation, family-owned winery. You can also visit the Château d’Aqueria, which dates to 1920, and to other producers like Domaine la Rocalière and Domaine de la Mordorée, which also receive accolades for their wines.