2019 Domaine de Trévallon

Domaine de Trévallon is a renowned estate located in the Alpilles mountains of Provence, near Saint-Rémy-de-Provence in southern France. The estate was founded in 1973 by Eloi Dürrbach, an architect who decided to plant vines on his family's property. Today, the domaine is run by Eloi's children, Ostiane and Antoine. Domaine de Trévallon quickly gained a reputation for producing exceptional wines that didn't conform to regional norms, particularly due to their unconventional blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. This unique approach led to the estate's wines being declassified from the local AOC, but it has not diminished their prestige or cult status among wine enthusiasts.

While Domaine de Trévallon is situated in Provence, it doesn't fall under any specific appellation. The estate's wines are classified as Vin de Pays des Bouches-du-Rhône, allowing for greater freedom in grape variety selection and winemaking practices. The region is characterized by its Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The Alpilles mountains provide a unique microclimate, with cooler temperatures and the influence of the Mistral wind, which helps keep the vines dry and disease-free. This area sits at the crossroads of Provence and the Rhône Valley, allowing Trévallon to draw influences from both regions in its distinctive wines.

The terroir of Domaine de Trévallon is exceptional and plays a crucial role in the character of its wines. The vineyards are planted on north-facing slopes of limestone scree, a relatively rare exposure in the sun-drenched south of France. This orientation, combined with the elevation (about 250 meters above sea level), helps maintain freshness and acidity in the grapes despite the warm climate. The limestone soils contribute to the wines' minerality and structure. Trévallon practices organic viticulture, eschewing the use of chemicals in the vineyards. The estate's signature red wine is a 50-50 blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, an unusual combination that reflects the unique terroir - the Cabernet Sauvignon thrives in the limestone soils, while the Syrah benefits from the Mediterranean climate. This blend, along with the distinctive terroir and meticulous winemaking, results in wines known for their power, elegance, and ability to age gracefully.