2024 Clos Saint-Magdeleine "Méditerranée", Provence, France

ABOUT THIS WINE

This white wine is a blend of Vermentino, ugni and clairette produced on an atypical terroir of Provence; full north exposure, limestone plateau at 400m altitude located on the edge of the forest.

Direct pressing and aging in stainless steel tanks complete the picture.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

This domaine also has prized holdings on steep terraces carved into the sensational Cap Canaille, France's highest sea cliff perched 400 meters over the Mediterranean. Only a dozen vignerons today are fortunate enough to produce AOC Cassis (the appellation covers just 215 hectares), and the small quantities available are largely consumed locally with fresh fish—the best way to enjoy them. Vine cultivation dates back to the 12th century, making it a historic vineyard in Provence. Its terroir consists of Cretaceous sandstone and sandy marl, a soil conducive to the production of great dry white wines. The Sack-Zafiropulo family has been making wine here for four generations and continues to craft whites of grace and finesse, just as they did when founder Jules Savon won the Gold Medal for the domaine at the World’s Fair in 1900. That they share their limited quantities with us makes this long-term relationship all the more special. 

Viticulture and vinification at Clos Sainte Magdeleine are under the direction of Jonathan Sack, who took the reins from his father, François, in 2008. The domaine bottles both whites and rosés, the latter of which are especially limited. Sack completed conversion to organic viticulture in 2012, a philosophic progression after years of sustainable farming. He has also introduced new ideas from concrete egg vinification to experimentation with Vermentino, exploring the immense potential of this striking maritime terroir with curiosity and precision. The seaside location and abundant limestone yield delicate, mineral wines perfumed of wild herbs and flowers, with a trademark saline finish. Clos Sainte Magdeleine’s success lies in an uncanny ability to capture a dichotomous nerve and sun-kissed unctuousness in their wines, making them both incredibly food-friendly and delicious entirely on their own.