Location and landscape
Tavel lies in the Rhône corridor, about 15 kilometres north-west of Avignon, in the Gard département. The appellation is focused on the commune of Tavel and also includes a limited area of Roquemaure. The vineyards extend from a gravel terrace around 120 metres high, over sandy slopes and valleys, to colluvial areas in the south-east.
Climate and soils
The vineyards have hot, dry summers, plenty of sunshine, and are regularly exposed to the cold, dry mistral. Annual rainfall is around 700 millimetres, while during the ripening period only a little rain falls. The soils include, among other types, clayey-calcareous layers with Terra rossa, red soils over a gravel terrace, pliozene sands, and young white colluvium.
Wine and grape varieties
The Tavel appellation is reserved exclusively for still rosé wines. Among the authorised varieties are Grenache Noir, Grenache Blanc, Grenache Gris, Mourvèdre, Syrah, Cinsaut, Clairette and Piquepoul. Grenache Noir, Grenache Blanc and Grenache Gris together must account for more than 30 and less than 60 per cent of the vineyard area; Grenache Noir must be included in the cuvée. Young wines show fruity or red-fruit notes; later, hints of liquorice, herbs, flint and spices can develop.
Historical context
The oldest documented written mention of vines in Tavel dates from the year 897. In the 14th century, the papal court of Avignon promoted the production and trade of Tavel wine. The AOC was recognised on 15 May 1936.
