Did you know we speak Rhône along the Wine Road? We say things like, “Would you like to try our Marsanne or Viognier? Or, maybe you’re a red wine fan and would prefer Counoise or Grenache?”

In the last blog, we explored some of the Rhône wines available along the Wine Road, and the wineries that produce these wines. Now it is time to share details about a weekend devoted entirely to Rhône exploration along the gorgeous countryside of Northern Sonoma County.

Esprit du Rhône

The Wine Road’s newest event—Esprit du Rhône—is a weekend set aside to celebrate the spirit of Rhône wines—whites, reds and blends. This two-day event kicks off on Friday night.

Sign for Esprit du Rhone, a weekend of celebrating the spirit of the Rhone, May 18-19, 2018

Day One—Overview

On Friday, May 18th, join almost 20 winemakers as they pour their Rhône varietals and blends for you.

With limited ticket available for this intimate evening, you’ll be assured time to taste and talk with winemakers as they pour their superb Rhône wines.

Day Two—Immersion

On Saturday, May 19th, travel through the breathtaking back roads of Alexander, Dry Creek, and Russian River Valleys to visit Rhône wine producers. With over 30 wineries to choose from, you’ll need to do your homework before venturing out. Or not, and meander with the map and enjoy the day. (Note: not all our backroads have cell reception, so you might want to take a printed map along.)

Diving Deeper into Rhônes

If you love trying something new, or already know you enjoy Rhône varietals and blends, this is the perfect event to attend. And, now that the Rhône Rangers are no longer hosting their annual tasting in the Bay Area, we who love Rhônes need to expand our horizons to get our annual fix of Rhône wines.

As I perused the Esprit du Rhône program, I was thrilled see so many great options. Here are a few to fire up your taste buds.

Rhône is the only language spoken at Frick Winery.

Rhône is the only language spoken at Frick Winery. Bill Frick, the man who wears all the hats at the winery, refers to himself as a Rhône fanatic. We’re glad he is!

Donelan Family Wines offers Rhône varietals and blends that garner critic scores of 90+ points.

Donelan Family Wines offers Rhône varietals and blends that garner critic scores of 90+ points. The wines they’ll be pouring for Esprit du Rhône include a Roussane and Viognier blend called Venus, a Grenache and Mourvèdre blend called Cuvee Moriah, and two highly acclaimed Syrahs.

Peterson Winery’s five whimsical labels belie the seriously awesome wines in every bottle.

Peterson Winery’s whimsical labels belie the seriously awesome wines in every bottle. Peterson sources grapes from their Bradford Mountain Estate Vineyard and from other growers throughout Dry Creek Valley to produce their lineup of Rhône wines.

Amphora Winery, located adjacent to Peterson, offers equally interesting Rhône varietals, plus a GSM (Grenache-Syrah- Mourvèdre) blend.

Amphora Winery, located adjacent to Peterson, offers equally interesting Rhône varietals, plus a GSM (Grenache-Syrah- Mourvèdre) blend.

Family Wineries of Dry Creek will be pouring Rhône wines from three different wineries—Collier Falls, Dashe Cellars, and Philip Staley Vineyards & Winery.

Also located at Timber Crest Farms with Peterson and Amphora, Family Wineries of Dry Creek will be pouring Rhône wines from three different wineries—Collier Falls, Dashe Cellars, and Philip Staley Vineyards & Winery.

Christopher Creek is offering a Port-style Rhône dessert wine along with Viognier, Syrah, and a Rhône blend.

Christopher Creek is offering a Port-style Rhône dessert wine along with Viognier, Syrah, and a Rhône blend. All the wines come with a stellar vista as well.

Viszlay Vineyards will be pouring a delicious Petite Sirah and a Rhône blend.

Viszlay Vineyards will be pouring a delicious Petite Sirah and a Rhône blend. As neighbors to Christopher Creek, they will also be offering a stellar vista with each sip.

As you can see from the small sampling above, there are plenty of delicious wines to choose from. Be sure to review the event program, and plan your day to try varietals or blends you haven’t experienced before. The Esprit du Rhône weekend is all about discovering and enjoying the world of Rhône wines along the Wine Road.

Have Fun and Win $100

Love to take photos and post them on Instagram? What if you could win $100 just by doing what you already like to do?

The Wine Road will select a favorite Instagram photo from the Esprit du Rhône weekend and award the photographer $100. Just be sure to tag the post with #WineRoad and #EspritduRhone to enter the contest. What could be simpler?

Mounts Family Winery's 2018 Rhone Spring releases

Hope to see you along the Wine Road during the Esprit du Rhône weekend. And, remember to buy your tickets soon, the Friday night event is limited to 100 people.

Happy Sipping!

#AlongTheWineRoad #WineRoad #EspritduRhone

Posted by Rebecca Germolus

Rebecca Germolus, co-owner of Maximum Value Marketing, loves Sonoma County and playing along the Wine Road. Rebecca daily immerses herself in wine country by providing cost-effective marketing and writing solutions to wineries and restaurants.

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