Take 3 friends, a steep vineyard plot, a shared vision, and the result is a new partnership in excellence. In 1995 Yves Cuilleron, François Villard and Pierre Gaillard decided that new life could come from the ancient but neglected vineyards around Seyssuel on the Northern Rhône between Lyon and the town of Vienne. The renewal project began on vineyard slopes that in places were as steep as 60%. Together they built a winery and founded Vins de Vienne, a small negoçiant company whose income might help offset their ambitious endeavour. Both projects have found success: Vins de Vienne became the catalyst for other prestigious growers to invest in Seysseul; and the carefully-crafted wines of Vins de Vienne have developed their own faithful following.