The Chave family began cultivating vines on the Hermitage hill over five centuries ago, in 1481. Their lineage in the Northern Rhône has continued from father to son ever since – an unbroken chain of vignerons weathering wars, phylloxera, and economic turmoil. Originally based in the village of Lemps (St Joseph appellation), the family acquired prime vineyards on Hermitage itself by the late 19th century and gradually focused their efforts on this prestigious hill. In the mid-20th century, Gérard Chave further elevated the domaine's reputation, expanding holdings and insisting on traditional methods just as many others were industrializing. His son Jean-Louis Chave joined in 1992 and today directs the estate, carrying on the family philosophy. Under Jean-Louis, the domaine has maintained its relentless pursuit of quality – including replanting ancient terraces, restoring holdings in all key Hermitage climats, and vinifying each parcel separately to honor its character. The Chaves have never released a special cuvée or deviated into luxury branding; instead, they blend their plots into one red and one white Hermitage, a practice that underscores their view of Hermitage as a singular great wine.