Around Bourg-Saint-Andéol, southern Ardèche is a true wine country, still too little known. Here you will not find the big names of the Vaucluse or the Gard, but family winemakers of southern Ardèche, human-scale cooperative cellars and characterful appellations: IGP Ardèche, Côtes du Vivarais and Côtes du Rhône. After ten years welcoming our guests at Mas Saint Antoine, here is our honest selection of 5 cellars and estates to visit, all genuinely located in Ardèche, between 5 and 15 minutes from the property.
Key takeaways:
- The wines of southern Ardèche fall into three families: IGP Ardèche (90% of production), AOP Côtes du Vivarais and AOP Côtes du Rhône, including the rare Côtes du Rhône Villages Saint-Andéol.
- Most cellars offer a free tasting, with no obligation to buy.
- Every estate in this selection is 5 to 15 minutes from Mas Saint Antoine.
- Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health: plan for a sober driver and taste in moderation.
Why visit the winemakers of southern Ardèche?
The right bank of the Rhône, in southern Ardèche, has grown vines for more than two thousand years. Until the 1960s, the region mostly produced blending wines. A generation of committed winemakers changed everything: pulling up hybrids and replanting noble grape varieties (Grenache, Syrah, Viognier, Chardonnay). Today nearly 90% of the vineyard has been restructured.
The result: sincere wines at reasonable prices, and a welcome that has stayed personal. You chat with the winemaker or a family member, not a salesperson. It is the opposite of industrialised wine tourism.
What are the appellations of southern Ardèche?
To avoid confusion with the neighbouring appellations of the Vaucluse or the Gard, here are the three genuinely Ardèche denominations of our area:
| Appellation | Good to know | Villages (07) |
|---|---|---|
| IGP Ardèche | 90% of production. An optional Coteaux de l’Ardèche mention is possible. Varied grapes. | Whole department |
| AOP Côtes du Vivarais | Gras plateau, Mediterranean climate. Characterful reds, rosés and whites. | Bidon, Gras, Larnas, Labastide-de-Virac, Orgnac-l’Aven, Saint-Montan, Saint-Remèze, Lagorce, Vinezac |
| AOP Côtes du Rhône and Côtes du Rhône Villages Saint-Andéol | Saint-Andéol is a rare, local villages denomination (3 stars in the 2021 Guide Hachette). | Bourg-Saint-Andéol, Saint-Just, Saint-Marcel and Saint-Martin-d’Ardèche |
Which cellars and estates should you visit near Mas Saint Antoine?
Our selection favours proximity to the Mas and a genuine welcome. Here are the five addresses, from the closest to the furthest.
1. The Cave des Vignerons de Bourg-Saint-Andéol (5 min)
This is the closest cellar to the Mas, in the heart of Bourg-Saint-Andéol. Founded in 1929, this cooperative cellar now brings together around thirty winemakers, mainly in Bourg-Saint-Andéol and Saint-Montan. About half of the production is organic, the rest under the HVE (High Environmental Value) label.
You will find a wide range in bottle, bag-in-box and on tap: Côtes du Rhône, the renowned Côtes du Rhône Villages Saint-Andéol (3 stars in the 2021 Guide Hachette des Vins) and IGP Ardèche, plus many local products. It is the ideal way to discover the local terroir in a single stop, at very accessible prices. The cellar is on chemin de la Barrière, 19 rue Marius Vincent; it is generally open Tuesday to Friday morning and afternoon, and Saturday morning.
2. The Domaine Les Amoureuses (5-10 min)
Also in Bourg-Saint-Andéol, on chemin de Vinsas, the Domaine Les Amoureuses is an experience of its own. Taken over in 2011 by Jean-Pierre and Florence Bedel, the estate covers around sixty hectares and has rethought everything: a spectacular contemporary cellar (stainless-steel tanks, large casks, amphorae) and a wide range of grape varieties.
The wines are IGP Ardèche, AOC Côtes du Rhône and IGP Méditerranée. Since 2023, the estate has been certified organic (Ecocert) and biodynamic (Demeter). Tastings take place on a shaded terrace, in a refined setting. The estate also hosts events (weddings, seminars). The cellar is open Monday to Saturday (extended hours in season). The name pays tribute to a local legend from the Vinsas area, where summer romances once blossomed.
3. The Domaine de Mermès, in Gras (15 min)
On the beautiful Gras plateau, between the Rhône valley and the Ardèche Gorges, the Domaine de Mermès is a family estate we are especially fond of. Patrice and Séverine carry on know-how passed down through the generations, across 25 hectares of organic farming.
Their wines are IGP Ardèche (Viognier, Chardonnay, rosé, Merlot and Syrah reds) and AOP Côtes du Vivarais, along with lovely sweet wines and pure grape juice. The cellar is open all year. In July and August, do not miss the free tour of the vineyard and cellar, followed by a tasting of local products, on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6pm (about 1h30, no booking required). The estate even offers accommodation, the Gîte des Mûriers, in the heart of the vines and lavender.
We have devoted a full article to them: discover our visit to the Domaine de Mermès and its organic wines.
4. The Clos de l’Abbé Dubois, in Saint-Remèze (15 min)
In the heart of the medieval village of Saint-Remèze, the Dumarcher family (Claude, Cécile and Vitalys) welcomes you to their cellar. Here you can taste IGP Ardèche and AOP Côtes du Vivarais wines in red, white and rosé (Merlot, Syrah, Viognier, Gamay), as well as grape juice.
The family production goes beyond wine: you will also find olive oil and lavender essential oils. The estate has two gîtes and a bed-and-breakfast room, perfect for extending your stay in this charming village near the Ardèche Gorges.
5. The Caveau des Vignerons des Gorges de l’Ardèche, in Saint-Remèze (15 min)
Also in Saint-Remèze, this cellar offers a free tasting and a fine selection in AOC Côtes du Vivarais and Coteaux de l’Ardèche. Open all year, it also serves as a local-produce shop. Handy detail: motorhome facilities are available (water, waste disposal). A good address to take home a few local bottles without breaking the bank.
How does a tasting with a winemaker work?
A visit almost always follows the same relaxed flow:
- The welcome: the winemaker introduces the estate, its history and philosophy. Friendly, never commercial.
- The cellar tour (often 15-20 min): press, tanks, barrels. You learn how the wine is made.
- The tasting: usually 3 to 6 wines, from the lightest to the most powerful. Feel free to spit to stay clear-headed.
- Chatting and buying: pairing and cellaring advice. No pressure: you buy what you like, or nothing.
Allow 1h to 1h30 on average. Bernard’s tip: call the day before, even when the cellar welcomes visitors without an appointment. It is more courteous and ensures the winemaker is available.
How much does a tasting cost?
In the vast majority of family cellars and estates of southern Ardèche, the tasting is free and with no obligation to buy. Out of courtesy and pleasure, visitors usually leave with a few bottles. Only a few estates offer paid formats (wine workshops, premium tastings), to be booked in advance.
When should you visit the winemakers in Ardèche?
Spring (April-June): our favourite time
Lush vineyards, mild temperatures, available winemakers and few crowds. The light is beautiful. It is also an ideal time for a group weekend at the Mas, away from the summer rush.
Summer (July-August): high season
Very hot and busy. This is the season of guided tours (such as at the Domaine de Mermès, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6pm). Book your appointments and check for closures around 15 August.
Late season (September-October): the harvest
A magical time, with the buzz of the vines. Winemakers are slightly less available during the harvest, so favour late September and October. It is also the perfect moment to book the whole Mas for a group or seminar, when the property is quiet again.
Winter (November-March): low season
Bare vineyards but an authentic atmosphere and long, convivial tastings. Many cellars stay open.
How to combine wine tourism with discovering the region?
A “winemakers + village” day: in the morning, wander through the heritage of Bourg-Saint-Andéol (5 min from the Mas); have lunch there; in the afternoon, visit the nearby Cave des Vignerons or Domaine Les Amoureuses.
A “vines + Gorges” day: head for the Gras plateau and Saint-Remèze. Combine the Domaine de Mermès or the Clos de l’Abbé Dubois with a walk towards the Ardèche Gorges and the Pont d’Arc.
Why stay at Mas Saint Antoine to visit the winemakers of southern Ardèche?
Mas Saint Antoine is ideally located to set off and meet the winemakers of southern Ardèche:
- ✅ Every cellar in this selection is 5 to 15 minutes away
- ✅ Our winemaker address book at your disposal
- ✅ 6 independent gîtes and a large enclosed 2-hectare park
- ✅ A 13×6 m saltwater pool
- ✅ Fully equipped kitchens and a cellar to keep your purchases cool
- ✅ Also ideal for groups on exclusive hire (up to 38 people)
- ✅ Rated 4.9/5 across more than 130 verified reviews, featured in Petit Futé
In conclusion
Visiting the winemakers of southern Ardèche is a human experience as much as a wine one. Our golden rules:
- Mix the profiles: a cooperative cellar, a family estate, an exceptional domaine.
- Call the day before to confirm.
- Appoint a sober driver and taste in moderation.
- Buy what you like, with no pressure.
- Take your time: two or three estates a day, no more.
Above all, listen to the stories. Every winemaker has their own journey and passion: that, more than the bottles, is the true richness of wine tourism in Ardèche.
Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health. Please drink responsibly.
Frequently asked questions
Which are the best winemakers to visit in southern Ardèche?
Among our favourite addresses near Bourg-Saint-Andéol: the Cave des Vignerons de Bourg-Saint-Andéol (5 min away, ideal for discovering the local terroir), the Domaine Les Amoureuses (contemporary cellar, organic and biodynamic wines), and the Domaine de Mermès in Gras (family-run, organic, warm welcome). In Saint-Remèze, the Clos de l’Abbé Dubois and the Caveau des Vignerons des Gorges de l’Ardèche complete the selection.
What are the wine appellations of southern Ardèche?
Three main families: IGP Ardèche, which accounts for around 90 percent of local production; AOP Côtes du Vivarais, on the Gras plateau; and AOP Côtes du Rhône, with the rare Côtes du Rhône Villages Saint-Andéol denomination around Bourg-Saint-Andéol. These are the genuinely Ardèche appellations, not to be confused with those of the neighbouring Vaucluse or Gard.
Is a tasting with a winemaker free?
In the vast majority of family cellars and estates of southern Ardèche, the tasting is free and with no obligation to buy. Visitors usually leave with a few bottles, for pleasure. Only a few estates offer paid formats such as a wine workshop, which should be booked in advance.
Do you need to book to visit a winemaker?
For cooperative cellars and most family estates, it is not compulsory: you are welcomed freely during opening hours. We still recommend calling the day before to confirm the winemaker is available, especially during the harvest or around 15 August, when some estates close.
Can you visit the Domaine de Mermès?
Yes. The cellar of the Domaine de Mermès, in Gras, is open all year. In July and August the estate offers a free tour of the vineyard and cellar followed by a tasting of local products, on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6pm, with no booking required (about 1h30). We devote a dedicated article to it on the Mas blog.
When is the best time to visit the winemakers of Ardèche?
Spring, from April to June, offers the best balance: lush vineyards, mild temperatures and available winemakers. Summer is hot and busy but is the season of guided tours. September and October, the harvest period, are magical even if winemakers are slightly less available. In winter, tastings are long and convivial.
Can you buy wine directly at the estate?
Yes, that is the whole point of the visit. Winemakers sell directly, often by the bottle but also in bag-in-box, wine fountain or in bulk depending on the estate. Prices are generally very reasonable. Bring a suitable boot and avoid leaving cases in full sun in summer.
How far are the winemakers from Mas Saint Antoine?
All the addresses in this selection are 5 to 15 minutes from Mas Saint Antoine. The Cave des Vignerons de Bourg-Saint-Andéol and the Domaine Les Amoureuses are the closest, about 5 to 10 minutes away. The Domaine de Mermès in Gras and the two cellars in Saint-Remèze are about 15 minutes away.
Can you visit a wine estate with children?
Yes, winemakers gladly welcome families. Children are often fascinated by the cellar tour and the barrels, and can taste grape juice while the adults taste wine. Remember to bring something to keep them occupied. Several estates have pleasant outdoor areas.
Which grape varieties are found in southern Ardèche wines?
Typical varieties are Grenache, Syrah and Merlot for the reds, Viognier and Chardonnay for the whites. There is also Gamay and, in some innovative estates such as Les Amoureuses, rarer varieties suited to the climate. This diversity gives varied wines, from light and fruity to more structured.
Article written by Bernard Favre, owner of Mas Saint Antoine.
Avis google
Bref un endroit au top que nous recommandons vivement
Le lieu est magnifique, avec une très belle vue et très calme.
La propriétaire a été charmante et à l'écoute de nos besoins quels qu'ils soient; un climat de confiance s'est vite installé.
Le lieu est très accessible et les parties communes pour se réunir sont très bien équipées.
La literie est bonne et les chambres propres.
Je recommande
Le cadre extérieur est également très appréciable : piscine, forêt, ping-pong, terrain de pétanque et grande terrasse pour profiter encore un peu du soleil d’automne ☀️
Merci Hélène et Bernard pour votre accueil chaleureux!
Merci également au traiteur So’ brunch de nous avoir livré à domicile pour régaler nos papilles tout le week-end!
Une expérience réussie! 🥳
L'espace piscine est vraiment super avec des nombreuses assises si vous êtes un grand groupe.
Tous les gîtes sont très propres et très bien équipés. Pas de plaintes des invités sur la literies en tout cas! Petit plus : les lits étaient fait à l’arrivée et les serviettes à disposition sur les lit.
Nous avons pu également voir de superbes couchés de soleil sur la vallée. Sans oublier la vue dégagée sur le mont ventoux.
Une très chouette adresse : j’y retournerai avec grand plaisir ! Pourquoi pas les 35 ans !
Bernard et sa femme sont adorables, humains, serviable et très à l'écoute.
C'est un gîte familial, tranquille et agréable.
Et il n'y a pas de moustiques ! 😅
Nous avons passé un excellent séjour.
Si nous revenons en Ardèche ça sera ici, merci encore pour tout 🙏
Un accueil très chaleureux d’Hélène et Bernard qui nous ont indiqué plusieurs sites à visiter. On n’oublie pas Djingo, le super copain de notre chienne.
Gîte de l’olivier pour notre séjour très propre et très bien équipé , pensez juste au tire bouchon ^^ seule petit bémol pour la personne dormant dans le salon la VMC peut être bruyante pour une personne ayant le sommeil léger sinon rien à redire nous reviendrons si nous passons dans le coin ! Merci pour votre accueil
Patricia et stéphane
Rien à redire! Il nous tarde de revenir.
Notre chien aussi a apprécié le séjour, il a pu navigué à son aise sur le domaine.
Les propriétaires sont très sympathiques et arrangeants.
Nous avons beaucoup aimé notre semaine au Mas et nous recommandons vivement cette adresse.
Je recommande fortement
Logements/cuisines et extérieurs très bien équipés et adaptés aux enfants!
Merci pour l’accueil :-)
Des propriétaires des plus accueillants, toujours à l'écoute de nos remarques et de notre bien être.
Beaucoup d'activités à faire autour du Mas saint antoine
on pense déjà à notre prochain séjour au Mas, c'est un lieu à connaître et à découvrir sans attendre, vous passerez un séjour plus que reposant
merci encore aux propriétaires du Mas Saint Antoine , lieu incontournable
La piscine est juste splendide dans un écrin de verdure.
Quant aux propriétaires ils sont adorables et prêt à vous aider et vous conseiller. Superbe semaine
Nous conseillons le lieu car idéalement situé pour circuler et visiter cette belle région.
Très belle piscine avec pergolas pour éviter les coups de soleil.
Les propriétaires sont à l'écoute,
disponibles et de très bons conseils pour découvrir la région.
Maxime et Laetitia
Les propriétaires sont prévenant
Piscine gîte WiFi dans les chalets
Vue splendide
Nous avons pu partager de très bons moments avec les hôtes, qui sont de très bons conseils sur ce qu'il y a à faire et à découvrir aux alentours.
Le cadre et le logement sont magnifiques, un vrai havre de paix où il fait bon de se retrouver entre amis ou en famille
Le Mas Saint Antoine est idéalement placé pour profiter de toutes les activités touristiques et sportives
La piscine avec vue est sécurisée et splendide, la réalité est conforme aux photos, tout est très bien équipé et choisi avec goût
Merci à nos hôtes pour l'accueil, nous reviendrons avec plaisir !
Très vaste et parfaitement équipé.
Accueil cordial .
Gite à recommander.
Un grand merci aux hôtes qui nous ont très bien reçu. Le cadre du mas saint Antoine est idéal pour des retrouvailles familiales, sécurisé et très bien équipé.
Les gîtes sont décorés avec goût, propres et fonctionnels. La piscine, les terrains de pétanques, la table de ping-pong sont un vrai plus. Nous avons même eu la possibilité de louer un karaoke!
Toute la famille, des petits aux grands garderons un super souvenir de cet endroit. Nous gardons précieusement l’adresse.
Merci beaucoup et à bientôt !
Julie et toute sa famille :)
Les parties de pétanques et de ping-pong a l'ombre des arbres auraient pu durer jusqu'au lendemain si les enfants qui se sont éclatés ne vennaient pas nous interrompre😁.
Nous n'avons pas pu profiter de la piscine car la température ne le permettait pas, mais je ne doute pas que ce doit être un délice en été.
Un seul regret: ne pas avoir été initié par Bernard à la recherche de truffes dans sa truffière privée...😆
Nous reviendrons, c'est certain, et nous vous recommanderons vivement et sincèrement!
Longue vie au Mas St-Antoine et merci Elena et Bernard d'offrir un lieu magique.
Je recommande
I recommend this well located and quiet place.
Logement impeccable, décoré avec goût, et fonctionnel.
Notre petite famille à pu profiter d’un séjour agréable , et dépaysant.
La piscine avec vu imprenable était un très apprécié.
Petit plus: notre chien a pu profiter du voyage également…
Merci à vous.
Romain Juliette et les enfants.
,
Les propriétaires sont extrêmement sympathiques, a l'écoute et très serviables, nous y reviendrons a coup sûr
Une piscine au top du top ,les propriétaires sont très accueillants et sympathique
Nous y reviendrons avec plaisir
Perfect welcome in joy and good humor, beautiful place and the chalets are good. The swimming pool is superb and equipped. The tenants informed us well about the surroundings. This place is magnificent !!!
Nous avons pu profiter de la piscine mais aussi des alentours. Nous regrettons de n’être pas restés davantage pour profiter encore de la région.
