Where?

Cairanne is located 30km north of the historically significant Southern Rhone city of Avignon.

Good map can be found at Cellar Tours.

What?

Historically Cairanne was one of 20 villages permitted to add their name to the 'Cotes du Rhone Villages' AOC. The 'Villages' appellation, as a whole, is the second largest appellation in the Rhone at 10,000 hectares (only the base level 'Cotes du Rhone' is bigger). In theory the named Villages wines are superior to those from the unnamed sites.

In 2016 Cairanne was promoted to its own AOC/AOP classification in recognition of rising quality levels and the consistency of the village to demonstrate genuine individual character and terrior.

Permitted Grapes

Red

• Grenache must make up at least 50% with a further 20% from Syrah and/or Mourvedre
• A maximum of 20% of other varieties is permitted

White

• Must comprise at least an 80% blend of the following: Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Marsanne, Rousanne, Viognier & Bourboulenc
• A maximum of 20% of other varieties is permitted

Rules & Restrictions

Minimum alcohol for reds is 12.5% and for whites/rose 12%