Alcohol: 13.5%
Grape(s): 100% Chardonnay
Localization: IGP Méditérranée, Southern France
Tasting Notes: Superb chardonnay for both everyday life and parties, with perfectly balanced and fresh acidity and ripe fruit. The vineyards are located in Provence at the foot of Mourre Negrei 400 meters above sea level, which ensures a fine acid balance. This chardonnay is not barrel-aged but has been aged on the lees, which contributes to a creamy mouthfeel that complements the ripe notes beautifully. Notes of peaches, pineapple and mango dominate.
The Domain: While studying general agriculture, Benjamin Meï discovered winemaking by chance. However, after his first internship at the famed Château de Fuissé in Burgundy, he knew he had found his calling. After completing his studies in viticulture and enology in Burgundy and perfecting his skills in prestigious French appellations like Pouilly Fuissé, Saint Émilion, and Corbières, Benjamin worked over a decade abroad in Chile, Australia, and New-Zealand. His most memorable moment was the 2007 harvest at Domaine de Triennes, when, due an unexpected turn of events, he had to assume management of the winery without ever having worked there before.
In 2010, Benjamin landed his first lead winemaker role in Chile. That same year, Chile had an earthquake that destroyed the cellar and part of the winery just two months before harvest. Despite this setback, Benjamin never gave up on his dream. He has gone on to win numerous awards for his wines, including the 2014 Innovation Award for Chilean wines and the 2017 Vinalies Paris Best in Show Red.
In 2015, he began the adventure that led him to his ultimate dream: having his own vineyards in Southern France. With his return came more accolades like the 2016 Wine Enthusiast 90 points and Best Buy for his AOP Côtes de Provence Rosé Infinie 2015, and a 2017 Decanter World Wine Awards 93 points Silver Medal for his AOP Côtes de Provence Infinie Rosé 2016. In 2019, Benjamin and his family bought an estate in Luberon in Southern France with a plan to build a new winery and a bed and breakfast.
Benjamin is up to the challenge of making wine from whatever the vineyard provides every vintage. His education in Burgundy led to his signature style showcasing minerality and freshness. He especially enjoys making his Côtes de Provence Rosé of Syrah, Grenache, Cinsault, and Vermentino, which he describes as having the perfect harmony of aromatics, liveliness, and purity.
