La Tène

Vins Divins was established in 1990 by Michael Stephens, who moved to Beaune with the objective of identifying and promoting the work of independent, terroir-focused growers. The company is now co-led by his daughter, Cara Stephens, who serves as the managing director. While the firm primarily operates as an international representative for dozens of Burgundian estates, the La Tène project represents their own specialized production label. This initiative was created to apply Burgundian expertise to vineyards located in other parts of France that share similar geological and climatic traits with the Côte d'Or.

The grapes for La Tène are harvested from high-altitude parcels in the Limoux area of the Languedoc, situated approximately fifty miles from the Pyrenees. These vineyards sit at elevations reaching 450 meters, where the combination of altitude and cooling winds allows for a longer growing season that preserves acidity and aromatic complexity. The soils are predominantly composed of limestone and clay, mirroring the soil profiles of major Burgundian communes. The winemaking process prioritizes a low-intervention approach with minimal sulfur usage, and the final stages of maturation occur in cellars in Beaune to ensure the wines reflect the house style.

The brand is dedicated to the two primary varieties of Burgundy, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, and its identity is deeply tied to regional history. The name La Tène refers to the European Iron Age culture, while the branding specifically honors the Aedui, a Celtic tribe that inhabited the slopes between Beaune and Nuits-Saint-Georges more than two millennia ago. By linking modern viticulture to these ancient vignerons, the producers emphasize the historical continuity of these grape varieties. The resulting wines are noted for their bright fruit profiles, savory tannins, and structural balance, offering a profile that bridges the gap between southern ripeness and northern finesse.