FranceCurated by Michele Edington, Certified Sommelier
Arles sits where Provence, the Rhône, and the wild, wild landscapes of the Camargue meet. While the city might be best known for its Roman history, colorful markets, and connection to Van Gogh, wine lovers will find themselves perfectly positioned to explore some of southern France's most fascinating rosé and Rhône appellations. From the legendary wines of Tavel to the sun-soaked vineyards surrounding the Rhône Delta, Arles offers a wonderful introduction to the flavors of Provence.
At a glance
Wine snapshot
If there is one wine style to remember from Arles, it's rosé. This is your chance to explore the deeper, more serious side of southern French rosé, particularly from nearby Tavel. These wines are fuller-bodied, more structured, and more age-worthy than many travelers expect. Alongside rosé, you'll encounter Rhône reds built on Grenache and Syrah, fresh Mediterranean whites, and countless opportunities to enjoy wine exactly as the locals do: with good food, good company, and absolutely no rush.
Also worth a sip
Wine may dominate the Rhône Valley conversation, but locals often begin meals with Pastis, the region's iconic anise-flavored aperitif. In cafés and restaurants throughout Arles, you'll also find locally produced fruit syrups, artisan lemonades, and excellent espresso culture. Provence is as much about the ritual of sitting outdoors with a drink as it is about what's in the glass.
If you've never tried Pastis, order it the way locals do. It arrives with water separately and turns cloudy when diluted. Sip it slowly before lunch while people-watching in one of Arles' squares. Even many wine professionals consider it one of the defining drinking traditions of southern France.
Common questions
- What wine is Arles known for?
- If there is one wine style to remember from Arles, it's rosé. This is your chance to explore the deeper, more serious side of southern French rosé, particularly from nearby Tavel. These wines are fuller-bodied, more structured, and more age-worthy than many travelers expect. Alongside rosé, you'll encounter Rhône reds built on Grenache and Syrah, fresh Mediterranean whites, and countless opportunities to enjoy wine exactly as the locals do: with good food, good company, and absolutely no rush.
- What grapes are grown around Arles?
- Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, Mourvèdre.
- Why is Arles a notable wine stop?
- Most travelers think of rosé as a simple poolside wine, but Tavel tells a different story. These wines have structure, depth, and the ability to age for years at a time! Visiting Arles places you within easy reach of one of France's most important rosé regions and offers a chance to experience the style that helped shape southern French wine culture.
- Is Arles a wine destination?
- Wine may dominate the Rhône Valley conversation, but locals often begin meals with Pastis, the region's iconic anise-flavored aperitif. In cafés and restaurants throughout Arles, you'll also find locally produced fruit syrups, artisan lemonades, and excellent espresso culture. Provence is as much about the ritual of sitting outdoors with a drink as it is about what's in the glass.
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Nearby winery
Domaine de la Mordorée
Local label terms, decoded
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