LE MAZELET

In Saint-Félix-de-Paillères, a charming corner of the Cévennes, Domaine Le Mazelet is the story of a partnership between an Oxford biochemist, Kim Nasmith, and a Dutchman from the hospitality world, Ronald Van Breemen. In 2012, Kim acquired the 5-hectare vineyard, which had been somewhat neglected, and together they set out to make honest, precise wines; without additives and using organic farming. The grape varieties are traditional for the region: Syrah, Grenache, Cinsault, Mourvèdre, and a more surprising Pinot Noir for the reds and rosés; Grenache Blanc, Vermentino, and Viognier for the whites. The result is wines that are truly Languedoc in style, with a lovely freshness brought by the clay-limestone soil and a vineyard perched at 210 metres altitude, nestled against the Cévennes mountains. A beautiful discovery!