Lirac, home to our vineyard sources, boasts a deep-rooted history as the oldest terroir in the Côtes-du-Rhône region, and was the first to commit to producing quality wines in all three red, white, and rosé categories.
Its reputation dates back centuries when Pope Innocent VI—born Etienne Aubert, the inspiration behind our label—ordered 20 casks of Lirac wine for his Avignon papacy, considering it the finest available.
Despite its prestigious legacy and identical soils, Lirac has often been overshadowed by its famous stepsister, Châteauneuf-du-Pape. However, in recent years, Lirac has begun to regain recognition, with more than 30 Châteauneuf-du-Pape producers investing in its vineyards, drawn by its
remarkable potential.
At Etienne, we firmly believe that Lirac can produce wines on par with the most esteemed Southern Rhone estates. Our choice of Lirac was not made as a compromise but out of conviction in the region’s ability to produce wines that are distinctly Lirac, while meeting the high standards of the finest wines in the Rhône Valley.
Our mission is to craft exceptional
wines that not only represent the best of Lirac but also contribute to the elevation of this historic wine region.
Pope Innocent VI, the fifth of seven popes to reside in Avignon, France rather than Rome, and ruled during a period marked by tension between Papacy and the French crown.
From 1309 to 1376, the Catholic Church operated from this once-quiet town of around 5,000 residents, which experienced significant growth during the papal residency.
Born as Étienne Aubert who was latered named, Pope Innocent VI, was among the more effective Avignon popes, notably fostering peace between France and England through the Treaty of Brétigny and instituting key reforms. He was also known for his refined taste, famously ordering 20 casks of Lirac wine—the finest available—to be served during his papacy.
To achieve our vision of crafting a distinctive and exceptional Lirac wine, we’ve embraced of the techniques passed down to us by renowned winemaker Philippe Cambie.
Our approach involves a combination of hands-on visits to the region and constant communication with our winemaking partners, Jeff and Simona Paly. She was handpicked by Philippe as his assistant.
