Wine Enthusiast magazine names France’s Rhône Valley "2010 Wine Region of the Year”

Wine Enthusiast magazine has named France’s Rhône Valley the “2010 Wine Region of the Year.” The region, where wine has been made for over 2,000 years, extends along the Rhône River between Lyon and Avignon in southeastern France. It is the second-largest Appellation d’Origine Controllée (A.O.C.) in the country.

With over 6,000 vineyard owners, the Rhône Valley produces almost 400 million bottles of wine a year. The region received this year’s award based largely on its dedication to quality and its long series of exceptional vintages. It is the first French region to win “Wine Region of the Year” in the history of the magazine’s prestitgious Wine Star Awards.

“The Rhône Valley wine region is dedicated to producing wines that are high-quality yet accessible ; wines that are food-friendly and appeal to a variety of discerning palates,” said Christian Paly, president of Inter Rhône.