The Original Syrah Wine Tour (2:00 pm – 6:30 pm) – Small Group Tour from Lyon

Traveling through France’s wine regions is often a highlight of any trip, and if you’re heading to Lyon, this small-group Syrah wine tour offers a pretty compelling way to experience the Rhône Valley’s famed vineyards. We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, but based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it looks like a thoughtfully curated day that balances wine tasting with some local flavor and history.

What really draws us in are the opportunity to sample 10 different regional wines—a generous tasting lineup—and the personalized experience that small-group tours tend to offer. Plus, the drive past terraced vineyards and a Roman Theatre adds a scenic and historical touch that makes the whole experience richer. That said, a potential consideration is the 4.5-hour duration, which is quite full but might be tight for those wanting a more relaxed, unstructured visit.

This tour seems best suited for wine lovers who want a hands-on approach, enjoy learning about local terroirs, and are comfortable with a relatively packed schedule. If you’re traveling with friends or even as a couple looking to deepen your understanding of Rhône wines, this could be a solid choice.

Key Points

• Intimate Group Size: Only 8 travelers, which means more personalized attention.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable in both wine and the local region, adding depth to the experience.
• Diverse Tasting Lineup: Sampling 10 wines, including Côtes du Rhône, Condrieu, and Cote Rotie, provides a broad taste of the region.
• Scenic Stops: Not just wine — stops include a Roman Theatre and vineyard vistas that enhance the trip.
• Balanced Itinerary: Visits to two family-owned wineries with private tours and tastings.
• Value for the Price: At around $125, the tour offers a lot of wine and scenery, making it a worthwhile splurge.

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point and Introduction

The tour kicks off at Lyon’s Office of Tourism and Congress, right on Bellecour Square—an easy location if you’re staying centrally or arriving by public transport. The guide meets you around 1:50 pm, and from there, you hop into a comfortable 8-seater minivan.

Scenic Drive and Vienne Stop

Your first stop is in Vienne, to admire the 2,000-year-old Roman theatre. This is more than just a quick photo op; your guide shares insights about the region’s history and the connection between Roman heritage and the landscape. It’s a nice way to set the tone, giving you a sense of the area’s long-standing relationship with viticulture.

Crossing Ampuis and the Vineyards

Next, you cross into Ampuis, often called the “world capital of Syrah”. The drive along the terraced hillsides is one of the tour’s highlights. Here, you’ll see the “roasted hillside” vineyards of Cote Rotie, where the steep, sun-drenched slopes create ideal conditions for Syrah grapes. The view is quite striking, with hills that tilt at dramatic angles—some up to 60 degrees—and the vineyards bathed in sunlight, facing the Rhône River.

Visiting Condrieu and the Viognier

Driving through Condrieu, you’ll learn about the Viognier grape, which almost disappeared in the 1960s but has since made a comeback. It’s an interesting detour that adds a layer of local grape history and shows how resilient these small wine regions can be.

Wineries and Tastings at Chavanay and Malleval

The heart of the day is at two family-run wineries. At Chavanay, you’ll get a short visit to the winery and tastings of six different wines, including some Condrieu, Cote Rotie, or St Joseph options. The review notes that the wineries are small, family-owned, and share their secrets about winemaking—something we appreciate since it’s often more authentic than larger commercial operations.

The second stop at Malleval is similar but with a private tour of the facilities, giving you insight into the art of barrel aging and production techniques. Here, you’ll taste five more wines—reds and whites—covering the main appellations of the region. This part of the tour is praised for its in-depth, friendly approach, and the opportunity to ask questions directly to the winemakers.

Wrapping Up in Lyon

By 6:30 pm, your guide will drop you back in Lyon at Bellecour Square, ending a busy but rewarding afternoon. The return journey allows you to reflect on the sights, wines, and stories shared during the day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

From the reviews, what seems to resonate most is the guiding expertise. One traveler called Olivier a “wonderful and extremely knowledgeable guide,” emphasizing how much they appreciated his insights and friendliness. Another review highlights the stunning scenery and the historic vineyards, describing it as “delightful” to see the traditional grapevines in the sunlight.

The wine selection also gets high praise. Sampling 10 wines, including some of the best-known Rhône appellations, offers plenty of variety and a good sense of the regional styles.

The tour’s balance of scenic drives, historical stops, and hands-on tastings makes it a well-rounded experience. It’s not just about drinking wine; it’s about understanding the land, the culture, and the craftsmanship behind each bottle.

What Could Be Better?

While the tour is highly praised, it’s worth mentioning that the duration might feel a bit tight for those wanting a more leisurely pace. Some might find the schedule a little packed with back-to-back tastings and stops. Also, since the tour is focused on just two wineries, if you’re hoping to visit larger or commercial estates, this might not be the best fit.

The price point is fair considering the inclusion of private transportation, expert guiding, and multiple tastings, but travelers should note that it’s a full 4.5-hour experience with a lot packed in—the price reflects the value of a curated, intimate experience rather than a casual afternoon.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is especially suited for wine enthusiasts who want to deepen their knowledge of Rhône wines in a small-group setting. It’s perfect if you like a mix of scenic views, historical context, and authentic family-run wineries. The tour’s expert guidance makes it a great choice for travelers eager to learn rather than just taste.

It’s also ideal for those comfortable with a somewhat busy afternoon, with the understanding that you’ll be sitting in a minivan, moving between stops, and tasting quite a few wines. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner who appreciates wine and scenic drives, this tour can be a delightful way to spend a half-day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers or those with wine allergies?
Since the tour is centered around wine tastings, it may not be ideal for non-drinkers or those avoiding alcohol. However, you can always ask the guide if alternatives are available, but that’s not specifically mentioned.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, creating an intimate setting where you can ask questions and engage more directly with your guide.

What are the start and end times?
The tour starts at 2:00 pm from Lyon’s Bellecour Square and returns around 6:30 pm.

Are transportation and guide services included?
Yes, you’ll be traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned 8-seater minibus with a knowledgeable guide who speaks both English and French.

What wines will I taste?
You’ll sample about 11 or 12 wines in total, including a mix of Cotes du Rhone, Condrieu, St Joseph, and Cote Rotie.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour. Refunds are available if you cancel in time.

Is there a recommended age for participants?
Most travelers of all ages seem to participate, but since wine tasting is involved, it’s best suited for adults.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 151 days in advance, so if you’re planning ahead, securing your spot early is wise.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to really get a feel for the Rhône Valley’s Syrah and other regional wines without the hassle of navigating yourself, this small-group tour offers a well-rounded, engaging way to do it. The expert guidance, scenic stops, and the chance to taste a variety of wines make it a good pick, especially if you’re serious about your wine journey.

It’s not the most relaxed way to spend an afternoon, but for those eager to combine scenic views, history, and wine, it hits a lot of the right notes. The fact that the guide is praised for their knowledge and friendliness makes this experience feel both educational and personal.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just someone wanting to understand Rhône wines better, this tour can add some memorable flavors to your trip to Lyon. Just remember to pace yourself, enjoy the scenery, and ask plenty of questions. Cheers!