Your 4-hour trip through Rhône Valley wine country begins with morning pickup from your Avignon hotel. Take a seat in the comfortable minivan and enjoy scenic views as you wind through the foothills of Mont Vernoux. Along the way, learn about the region's ancient winemaking heritage – originating in Roman times! – and current renown as a premier producer of fine wine. You’ll visit up to two acclaimed wineries in the world-famous Châteauneuf-du-Pape region, where the prestigious Appellation d'Origine Controlée (AOC) regulations were developed. As you travel, listen to your expert guide describe the grape varieties that thrive in this region, including Grenache, Cinsault and Counoise.  While at each winery, you’ll learn more about strictly preserved wine-making techniques, stroll through the cellars stacked with barrels of maturing wine, and enjoy a tasting session of several beautiful samples. Immerse yourself in the sensory experience of wine-tasting from taking in the color and aroma to identifying the complex flavor notes on your palate. Afterward, spend time strolling the vineyards and admiring gorgeous views of the centuries-old castles and mansions that dot the Rhône Valley. Your half-day excursion ends with drop-off at your hotel by afternoon. By the end, you’ll better understand the rich ecology of the Rhône Valley and the art of viticulture in southern France.  Please note: Monday and Thursday tours will visit two wineries. On any other day of the week, your tour with include one winery visit and tasting, followed by a stop in Orange to view its UNESCO–listed Roman amphitheater, one of Europe's most magnificent examples.