Domaine Rocher des Dames: wines for pleasure and celebration

Both Jean-Luc and Corinne Bernard come from winemaking families, which seems to be the reason why Jean-Luc pursued a career as a winemaker in a cooperative cellar once he was grown. Corinne, on the other hand, initially ventured into the shoe business but turned back to wine in 1997. “The future in that sector wasn’t very promising. Moreover, I felt a desire to reconnect with the world of wine. So, Jean-Luc and I decided to restore a farmhouse and vineyards that belonged to my family and set up guest rooms there,” Corinne explains.

Available directly from the estate on Avenue des Vins.

How did the estate come to be?

Guest rooms in a restored farmhouse

Located in Beaumes-de-Venise, Domaine Rocher des Dames spans 10 hectares of vineyards. Its name is inspired by one of the estate’s parcels.

The name suits us well, as there are three ‘dames’ in our family: Corinne and our two daughters,

Jean-Luc shares. At the time, the couple opted for a small cooperative cellar to handle the vinification of their red wine and muscat cuvées.

This system suited us, and still suits us, perfectly. Jean-Luc, who has spent years in the winemaking world, can focus on his vines. And I return to a commercial activity with the management of the guest rooms we named L’Evajade, in honor of our two daughters,

Corinne highlights.

What kind of wines does the domaine make?

Light, pleasant wines

At Domaine Rocher des Dames, the focus is on two colors and two appellations: red in AOC Beaumes-de-Venise and white in AOC Muscat-Beaumes-de-Venise.

In my family, we produced muscat, and Jean-Luc’s family made red Beaumes-de-Venise. So, it’s somewhat of a fusion of our two winemaking legacies!

Corinne summarizes. The two winemakers produce wines that are “pleasant to drink,” “light on the palate,” “fruity and floral,” and “not overly sweet,” ideal for festive occasions. But not only.

You have to dare to make unconventional pairings!

declares Corinne. She suggests pairing the “Beaumes-de-Venise Rouge” with Breton lobster or foie gras, and the “Muscat de Beaumes-de-Venise” with sushi or a chocolate and orange cake.

What can visitors experience at the estate?

Oenotourism among the vines

The innovative spirit of Domaine Rocher des Dames extends to its oenotourism offerings. Until December 31, visitors can enjoy a unique overnight stay in a giant barrel set amidst the vineyards. This 100% vinous type of accommodation is becoming increasingly popular in Europe but is a first in the commune of Beaumes-de-Venise…

Why buy directly from the winemaker? The wines of Domaine Rocher des Dames are shipped straight from the estate: estate price with no middleman, full vintage traceability, and your support for an independent winegrowing family.

Discover the wines of Domaine Rocher des Dames directly from the estate, at the estate price, in a short supply chain on Avenue des Vins.

Frequently asked questions about Domaine Rocher des Dames

Where is Domaine Rocher des Dames located?

The estate lies in Beaumes-de-Venise, in the southern Rhône Valley, where Jean-Luc and Corinne Bernard farm around ten hectares of vines. They brought an old family farmhouse back to life to house both their winegrowing and their guest rooms.

Which wines does Domaine Rocher des Dames make?

The estate works two neighbouring appellations: a red in AOC Beaumes-de-Venise and a white Muscat de Beaumes-de-Venise. The range brings together both families' traditions, one rooted in muscat, the other in Rhône reds.

What style are the wines?

Corinne and Jean-Luc aim for supple, aromatic wines led by fruit and floral notes, with restrained sweetness. That easygoing profile makes them natural companions for festive meals and shared tables.

What food pairings does the winemaker suggest?

Corinne enjoys bold matches. She pictures the red alongside lobster or a slice of foie gras, while the Muscat works with sushi as readily as with a chocolate-orange dessert.