In the southern stretches of the Rhône Valley, where sun-warmed stones meet ancient vineyards, Maison Lavau carries the story of a family deeply woven into the fabric of Mediterranean winemaking. Though formally established in 1965, the Lavau family's winegrowing roots reach back to 19th-century Saint-Émilion and later to Tunisia, where they became one of the country’s foremost producers. Returning to France in the mid-20th century, Jean-Guy and Anne-Marie Lavau settled in Sablet, embracing the rich tapestry of Rhône terroir.

Today, under the direction of Frédéric and Benoît Lavau, the estate has flourished into one of the few remaining independent family-run producers in the region. With 180 hectares of estate vineyards and three cellars across key appellations, Lavau blends scale with intimacy, crafting wines that remain grounded in place while embracing modernity.

The vineyards span prestigious sites such as Rasteau, Valréas, Gigondas, and Vacqueyras, each offering a unique voice through its soils and exposures. In addition to their own holdings, the Lavau brothers work closely with more than 350 partner growers, forging relationships that allow for precise selection and a broad palette of fruit. Sustainability is a guiding principle, with careful soil management and respect for biodiversity shaping the viticultural approach.

The wines themselves are generous yet finely tuned—classic Rhône in character but never rustic. Their Vacqueyras, a blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, offers depth and structure with notes of dark cherry, garrigue, and spice. The Côtes du Rhône is fresh and supple, crafted for early enjoyment, while selections from Gigondas and Châteauneuf-du-Pape carry more gravitas, balancing power with detail.

In 2013, the Lavau family partnered with Bénédicte and Charles Bonnet of Château Maucoil in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, further anchoring their presence in the upper echelon of the Rhône’s great terroirs. This collaboration has expanded the house’s reach while remaining faithful to its core ethos: to produce wines that are expressive, accessible, and true to their origin.

Maison Lavau stands as a contemporary voice of the southern Rhône—rooted in heritage, attuned to the land, and quietly confident in its craftsmanship.