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Tavel Celebrates 90 Years of AOP Status
May 15, 2026 marks the 90th anniversary of the Tavel Protected Designation of Origin (AOP), a landmark anniversary for this vineyard in the Rhône Valley, recognized as the village where France’s first officially recognized rosé wine was historically produced.

An exceptional product that reflects its terroir
Located in the Rhône Valley, 15 kilometers northwest of Avignon, the Tavel AOP is one of the 17 appellations of the Côtes du Rhône. It is distinguished by a rosé wine made from a blend of grape varieties, primarily Grenache, which gives it unique and immediately recognizable characteristics.
The production area is located in the municipality of Tavel and a small part of the municipality of Roquemaure. This terroir benefits from a climate particularly favorable to grapevines: summers are hot and dry, and the vineyards are regularly swept by the Mistral wind, allowing the grapes to ripen optimally.
Young wines develop primary aromas often dominated by very distinct notes of banana or red berries. Over time, hints of licorice and herbs emerge, along with notes of flint and spices.
For centuries, Tavel has thus cultivated a distinctive and unique identity—one that is at once powerful, elegant, and true to its terroir.
Recognized and Protected Expertise
The Tavel AOP fully embodies the principles of the Official Signs of Quality and Origin (SIQO): the promotion of a close link between a product, its terroir, and collective expertise passed down through generations.
The history of Tavel dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries; it was recognized as France’s first rosé wine in 1936.
Protected at the European level by the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), the product reflects the commitment of the winemakers who keep this winemaking heritage alive while adapting to changes in the industry.
With their slogan “At 90, you can’t change who you are!,” the appellation humorously and proudly asserts its distinct character, remaining true to both its history and its identity. The INAO celebrates the 90th anniversary of the Tavel appellation’s recognition, as well as the dedication of all the professionals who help promote this iconic wine both in France and internationally.
Celebrating a Landmark Anniversary
To mark this anniversary, the appellation’s management and promotion organization (ODG) and the industry are organizing a series of events focused on sharing and discovery centered around the appellation. Events such as last month’s Lyon Street Food Festival and the Côtes du Rhône Wine Bar held during the 80th edition of the Avignon Festival last week allow visitors to interact directly with winemakers and explore the appellation’s estates and cellars.
Next up, the Festival Couleur Tavel will take place this Saturday, July 18, 2026, in the Condamine Gardens in Tavel.
This year’s event takes on special significance as it will celebrate the appellation’s 90th anniversary alongside five other historic appellations created in 1936: Arbois, Cassis, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Cognac, and Monbazillac.
From 5:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., wineries, estates, castles, and wine merchants will welcome visitors in the historic gardens of La Condamine for a grand wine-tasting and cultural tour featuring:
- Tastings;
- Musical performances;
- An exhibition;
- Lectures;
- Activities for children;
- Exploring local heritage.
The festivities then continue until midnight with:
- Two music stages;
- A food village;
- Wine and cocktail bars;
- Numerous opportunities to meet industry professionals.
A wonderful opportunity to discover the world of Tavel and celebrate the women and men who have kept this appellation alive for 90 years.
- Visit the Tavel website: http://www.vin-tavel.com/fr/
- For more information on their social media: https://www.instagram.com/crutavel/ & https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoc-tavel-45269b268/
- Ticket office access: https://www.billetweb.fr/festival-couleur-tavel-2026
About the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO)

The AOP designation refers to a product for which all stages of production are carried out according to recognized expertise within a specific geographic area, which gives the product its distinctive characteristics. It is a European designation that protects the product’s name throughout the European Union. The rules for establishing an AOP are set forth in a set of specifications and are subject to control procedures implemented by an independent body approved by the INAO.
Our “Happy Annivers-signs” series
The “Annivers-signs” celebrate notable anniversaries marking the recognition of SIQO-certified appellations and products. This is an opportunity to look back on the history of these sectors, promote the regions, and shine a spotlight on the men and women who bring these products to life every day. Through this content, the INAO celebrates the legacy, heritage, and vitality of the official marks of quality and origin.
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