Chateauneuf-du-Pape | Guided Wine Tours With Wine Tasting

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Chateauneuf-du-Pape Castle

“The Papal Castle”, as it's called, was once the summer residence of Pope Clement V and John XXII. Sadly, however, much of the castle was sacked and destroyed during WWII. The remains of the castle, perched atop a hill, are still a must-visit sight and it’s perched atop a hill, the panoramic views of the village below are a sight to behold.

Visitor tips

The busiest months are July & August, so make sure to book your tickets at least a month in advance. But if you want to see the harvest of grapes, visit between September and early October.

The legal drinking age in France is 18 years but most wineries offer grape juice/non-alcoholic beverages for children and non-drinkers.

Sun protection is a must-have. Apply sunscreen, wear sunglasses, and carry a hat (just in case).

Red wine stains are permanent, so preferably wear dark-colored clothing. Avoid dangling sleeves and jewelry to avoid knocking over wine glasses while tasting.

If you’re not used to drinking wine, carry light snacks to munch between the tastings.

Be curious and ask questions, to your guide and at the wineries.

Avoid brushing your teeth an hour before the wine tasting.

Avoid wearing perfume/cologne to the wine tasting. Wine tasting is about smell and taste. If you can only smell your perfume, you’ll miss out on all the aromatics and flavors in your wine.

Wine tasting is an art, it improves with practice. If it’s your first-time wine tasting/touring, remember to learn and have fun with it!

If you want to purchase wine at the end of your visit, carry enough cash/ a credit card on you. Wine bottle prices can range from 99 USD–1000 USD.

Frequently Asked Questions about visiting Chateauneuf-du-Pape

What is the best time of year to visit Châteauneuf-du-Pape?

Chateauneuf-du-Pape is a pleasant visit throughout the year. However, if you want to witness the grape harvesting, visit from September to early October (early autumn) or during the Spring season (April to June), when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are fewer.

How many wineries can be visited in a single day?

Depending on your pace and preferences, you can visit around 3-5 wineries daily to allow ample time for tastings and leisurely exploration. But if you’re booking a guided tour, the itinerary allows for two winery visits and wine tasting.

What is the primary grape used in Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines?

Grenache is the dominant grape variety, but up to 18 grape varieties are allowed in the blend.

Are children allowed to visit wineries?

While most wineries welcome families, the focus is on adult-oriented wine tastings. Children aged three and below are not allowed on the guided tours due to safety concerns (uneven terrains, big wine barrels, etc).

Can I buy wine directly from the wineries?

Yes, most wineries offer direct purchases, and may even ship bottles to your home.

Is transportation available between wineries?

Some guided tours include transportation, and taxis or bike rentals are also options for independent travelers.

How long does a typical wine-tasting session last?

A tasting session usually lasts about 30-60 minutes, depending on the winery and selection of wines tasted.

Are there non-wine activities to enjoy in Chateauneuf-du-Pape?

Yes, visitors can explore the historical ruins of the Chateauneuf-du-Pape castle or enjoy the charming village shops and local cuisine. The full-day tour also includes visitingthe village of Roussillon, with its colorful homes.

What languages are the tours conducted in?

Tours are generally available in French and English, but other languages may be offered depending on the winery.