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Domaine Saint Mitre, in Provence, is a 70 acre vineyard which runs in front of a country house dating from 1817, with a magnificent view of the Massif de la Sainte Baume. The name means "holy cave" and is so named because supposedly Mary Magdalene came to Marseille and converted the whole of Provence to Christianity. Magdalene is said to have retired to this cave on a hill by Marseille, where she gave herself up to a life of penance for thirty years. The cave is now a Christian pilgrimage site. The unique terroir of Saint Mitre is known for its sunshine, its ideal location in Provence and the richness of its clay-limestone soils. The chateau dates from 1898, and has been completely renovated and equipped with modern facilities in order to make the best wine possible from their grapes. With a capacity of 350,000 cases, the cellar is made of stainless steel and concrete vats that are temperature controlled renovated. This low temperature during fermentation allows them to develop wines of a very light color and produce aromatic wines and have a unique freshness. The principle grape in this wine is listed as Vermentino, which is quite odd as the grape is known in France as Malvoisie and even Malvasia. It is Italy who refers to it as Vermentino. No matter to us, as the flavors are just as spectacular here as they are elsewhere. Our selection is an interesting bird indeed. The Vermentino grape is a late ripening variety that can't be grown in a marginal climate or it won't ripen sufficiently. When it does, however, it is spectacular and is best known when produced on the island of Sardinia off the coast of Italy. The blending of Chardonnay is a brilliant touch as it softens the edges and smooths out the lovely finish. Our selection features strong aromatics and sports a lively acidity to match imposing dishes like Cioppino or crab cakes. February Limited Series Newsletter (.pdf)
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