Why are Rhône Valley vineyards often terraced?

In certain areas of the Northern Rhône Valley, vineyards are located on very steep slopes overlooking the river. To be able to cultivate vines under these conditions, winemakers have shaped the hillsides into terraces, sometimes called "chaillées". These structures help stabilize the soil and create cultivable surfaces. Terraces also promote better exposure of the vines to the sun and limit soil erosion. This type of vineyard requires a lot of manual labor, as access to the plots is often difficult for machinery. Despite these constraints, terraces allow for the production of high-quality grapes thanks to optimal exposure and a unique terroir. Today, they are an integral part of the Northern Rhône Valley's wine landscape.