Lori Haon: The Revival of a Forgotten Vineyard in Valliguières

In 2016, Lori Haon embarked on a bold journey, settling in Valliguières in the Gard region of France. While completing his oenology studies at Rouffach in Alsace, Lori discovered an abandoned 20-hectare vineyard on Leboncoin. This serendipitous find became the foundation of his winemaking career, marked by hard work and a deep respect for the land.

The initial years were dedicated to restoring the neglected vines, where Lori uncovered hidden gems amidst the overgrowth: century-old Carignan and Grenache vines. Over time, he expanded the estate, which now spans 26 hectares of varied terroir, including sandy and limestone soils.

A New Generation of Winemaking

Lori Haon represents a new wave of winemakers, blending innovation with respect for tradition. His approach is as natural as it gets: no chemicals or synthetics are used in farming. Instead, he employs plant-based preparations to nurture the vines, preserving soil health and biodiversity. This philosophy translates directly into the wine, offering a true expression of the terroir.

The estate features an impressive diversity of 17 grape varieties, including Grenache, Merlot, Carignan, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Viognier, Pinot Noir, Cinsault, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache Gris, Riesling, Grenache Blanc, and Roussanne. Each plot contributes its unique character, reflecting the varied geology of the vineyard.

Funky Wines with a Modern Edge

Lori Haon’s wines are unsulfited, with everything finishing under 20mg/L of sulfur at analysis. The wines are organic, unfiltered, and crafted with minimal intervention, staying true to their natural roots. This hands-off approach ensures the wines are as vibrant and alive as the soils they come from.

Beyond the wines themselves, Lori embraces the creative side of winemaking, designing funky bottles that capture the spirit of a new generation. His work is a celebration of bold innovation in production, farming, and design, challenging traditional norms while staying grounded in authenticity.

A Living Reflection of the Terroir

Lori’s dedication to biodynamic and organic principles has earned his estate a Demeter certification. Every bottle tells a story of meticulous care, from the vineyard to the cellar, where vinification is carried out without filtration, clarification, or added chemicals.

Lori Haon’s wines are more than a product—they’re a vibrant reflection of a thriving ecosystem and a testament to the passion and perseverance of a winemaker who dared to dream big.