Ile de Ré wines

The island of Ré, famous for its landscapes and dreamy beaches, is also a favorite with wine lovers. Ile de Ré wines are renowned for their quality and unique character, the fruit of an exceptional terroir and ancestral know-how. Our 4-star Les Varennes campsite on the Ile de Ré invites you to discover the history of Ile de Ré wines. With know-how handed down from generation to generation by Ré’s winegrowers, and a selection of the island’s best vineyards, dive into the heart of the region’s finest wines.

The origins of Rhaetan vineyards

The vineyards of the Ile de Ré have a rich and interesting history. As early as Roman times, vines were planted on this fertile land, and viticulture continued to develop over the centuries. In the Middle Ages, it was the Cistercian monks who perfected vine-growing techniques, making the wines of the Ile de Ré a product renowned throughout France.

The island’s oceanic climate, with its mild winters and temperate summers, as well as its sandy and clay soils, creates ideal conditions for viticulture.

The different wines of the Ile de Ré

Rhaetan wines are distinguished by their diversity and quality. The island’s vineyards produce white, red and rosé wines, each with its own distinctive characteristics. Île de Ré white wines are often fresh and fruity, with citrus and white flower aromas. Red wines are generally light and elegant, with notes of red fruit and good acidity. Rosés, meanwhile, are appreciated for their freshness and lightness, perfect for accompanying hot summer days.

Know-how handed down from generation to generation

The know-how of the winemakers on the Ile de Ré is the result of centuries of tradition and innovation. Passed down from generation to generation, this know-how is the key to the quality and authenticity of the wines of the Ile de Ré. The island’s winemakers are deeply attached to their terroir and traditions, and work with passion to produce wines that reflect the soul of their land.

Winegrowing on the Ile de Ré is marked by a respectful approach to the environment. The winegrowers use integrated farming methods, limiting the use of chemicals and favoring natural practices. This approach preserves biodiversity and soil quality, while guaranteeing healthy, tasty wines.

Grape harvesting is a crucial stage in the production of Ile de Ré wines. Harvesting is generally done by hand, allowing us to carefully select bunches at optimum maturity. This attention to detail is reflected in the quality of the wines produced. The grapes are then carefully pressed and fermented, using both traditional and modern methods, to extract the very best from each variety.

The winemakers on the Ile de Ré are also committed to organic certification, demonstrating their desire to produce wines that respect the environment and consumer health. These certifications guarantee sustainable agricultural practices and complete product traceability, from vineyard to bottle. The know-how of Rhaetan winegrowers is not limited to wine production. They are also excellent ambassadors for their land, passionately sharing their history and traditions with visitors. Many of the island’s wineries and estates offer tours and tastings, providing a unique immersion into the world of Ile de Ré wines.

Some of Rhaetia’s best vineyards

The Ile de Ré is home to a number of renowned vineyards, each offering unique wines of the highest quality. Here is a selection of vineyards to discover:

Les Vignerons de l’île de Ré: a cooperative grouping together several local producers, offering a diversity of wines typical of the island. Their range of wines, from whites to reds and rosés, reflects the richness and diversity of Ré’s terroir.
Domaine Pelletier: this family-run vineyard produces quality wines, using traditional winemaking techniques. Their light, elegant red wines are the perfect accompaniment to local dishes.
Domaine Arica: in the heart of the island, this estate is located in the village of Loix. It’s on the limestone branches of the island that the grapes ripen vintage after vintage to produce the very best of Ile de Ré wines. You’ll find both white and red Merlot varieties.