Which of the following is NOT an AOC of the Northern Rhone?

• A. Cote du Rhone
• B. Cote-Rotie
• C. Condrieu
• D. Crozes-Hermitage

Answer: (A)

Understanding how AOC regions are laid out in the Rhône valley helps make sense of this. The Northern Rhône runs along the northern part of the valley and includes Côte-Rôtie, Condrieu, and Crozes-Hermitage, each a recognized AOC there. Côte du Rhône, by contrast, is a major Southern Rhône appellation, covering vineyards well south of the river. So it is not considered part of the Northern Rhône. Remembering the styles can help: Condrieu is white made from Viognier, Côte-Rôtie red (often with Viognier in the blend), and Crozes-Hermitage covers red and white wines in the north. That’s why Côte du Rhône does not fit as a Northern Rhône AOC.