Not far from Lyon, on the banks of the Rhône River, lies the small village of Tain-l’Hermitage. The area is known for its picturesque vineyards on both sides of the river, which are very easily accessible.
The region has its own wine appellation Hermitage AOC. Red wines are made from the Syrah grape variety, while white and sparkling wines are made from the Marsanne or Roussanne varieties. Red wines can age for up to 40 years, and white wines for up to 15 years. Approximately 730,000 bottles are produced annually.
The village is small, with a population of only 6,000. The surrounding vineyards are indeed very close. In the village, there are always several local wineries open, where you can taste their offerings during free tastings. Prices are very favorable, and the staff is helpful and speaks English without any problems.
From the village there is an easy four-kilometer loop through part of the vineyards. You can also take a ride on a classic tourist train. However, there are not many foreign tourists in Tain-l’Hermitage; we only encountered them in the largest wineries. The village is pleasantly quiet and not overcrowded.
Smaller winemakers have joined the cooperative Cave de Tain, which provides them with various services, as well as promotion and sales. At the same time, you can buy a wide variety of wines in the cooperative’s premises, including free tastings. Cave de Tain is definitely a place not to be missed during your visit.
Another recommended place to visit could be the branch of the large winery M. Chapoutier. Beautiful premises with a wide range of not only local wines and helpful English-speaking staff provided a pleasant experience.
Tain-l’Hermitage is very easily accessible from Lyon by direct train connection, the train covers 90 kilometers in about an hour. A round-trip ticket costs 20 EUR during the Saturday promotion. The purchased ticket can be used for any train connection of the same type throughout the day.
Have a nice trip!
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