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The 25 hectares of vines of Domaine des Masques are located on the Cengle plateau, a unique landscape. In the commune of Saint-Antonin-sur-Bayon, 15 km from Aix-en-Provence, Sophie and Carl Mestdagh manage their vineyard with passion and precision to produce a complex and atypical Provence wine. They’re joined by winemaker Yannick Burles and renowned consultant Yves Cuilleron.
The history of Domaine des Masques
Domaine des Masques, from the Provençal expression Lei masquos, or witches, conveys a strong, tradition-laden past. In those days, witches came to the Cengle plateau, which was renowned for the abundance and diversity of its medicinal plants.
Wine production on this terroir dates back to ancient times, but the Domaine des Masques vines were planted after the terrible fire in 1989. Another 14 years later, in 2003, the Mestdagh couple climbed onto the set and decided never to leave. At the time, the Domaine des Masques comprised 5 hectares of vines. Today, the couple has over 20 hectares of land, not including olive groves and aromatic plants.
Characteristics of a unique vineyard
These 25 hectares of vines grow at an altitude of 500 metres on the Cengle plateau. The high altitude, the variety of terroirs and the changing exposure of each parcel make this a vineyard in a class of its own. The precise work of the winemakers must be adapted to each piece of land.
Nevertheless, the estate benefits from a very favorable microclimate. Sunny, but with temperatures lower than the region’s average, this guarantees the wine’s aromatic power. The frequent wind keeps disease at bay, and the clay-limestone soil is particularly favorable to vine-growing.
The presence of olive groves and aromatic plants such as lavandin creates a balance between the various plants, guided by Provencal traditions. All crops are grown organically, and pesticides have no place on the Mestdagh farm.
Outstanding Provencal wines
Not far from the Sainte-Victoire terroir, Domaine des Masques wines are in a class of their own. These are atypical Provencal wines classified as IGP Méditerranée. Their grape varieties are the source of their uniqueness. In fact, we’re moving away from the classic Provençal grape varieties, opting for Syrah, Chardonnay or Grenache. These choices add depth, finesse and tension.
The estate’s cuvées come in three ranges, more or less accessible, more or less versatile.
Les Essentielles are blends full of gourmandise, freshness and finesse. These are wines for every occasion.
Exceptions are cuvées made from a single grape variety. Power and intensity are the hallmarks of these wines, which can be kept for several years, but can also be enjoyed young.
Finally, the Syrahdictive is the emblem of the estate. Named after the iconic grape variety, it is produced only in the best years. The grapes are harvested by hand, and the vinification and ageing are dedicated to the vineyard.
At Domaine des Masques, Syrah is more than just a grape variety, it’s the expression of an identity. In fact, even the estate dog is named in tribute to this sensational grape.
Photos: Domaine des Masques / Georges Flayols
Directeur artistique, Alfred Laurent est l'âme créative de la première place de marché direct producteur en France. Passionné de Beaujolais, de moto et de BD, il est toujours à l'affût de la nouvelle pépite !
