With 2600 hours of sunshine each year, the vinyards of Ré recieve as much sunlight as the south of France.

The island's wine producers, benefiting from a real micro-climate produce some fine wines and the famous Pineau du Cognac.

Pineau is a blend of cognac and freshly harvested grape juice which has to be tasted, perhaps on a visit to one of the many vinyards open to the public.