When Jacques Mestre retired in 1998, his domaine was split into 2 parts: Son, Christophe inherited the domaine name, cellars and buildings, while daughter, Christine Estoulle created a separate domaine - 'Les Moulins des Saints' - with her land. Domaine Jacques Mestre itself consists of 11 hectares of vines, of which 1.5 hectares are of white varieties. The 'Cuvée Sommeliers' is a blend of 65% Grenache Rouge, 15% each of Syrah and Mourvedre and 5% Cinsault. Aged in for 18 months in enormous foudres (large oak barrels), it is only released to order.
A deep violet in colour. A nose of blackberry, cassis, kirsch and liquorice. On the palate, full-bodied and savoury with a silky texture and beautifully balanced tannins. The finish is lengthy with peppery notes. Drink now or keep for a further 5 years. Great with a lamb râgout with olives and peppers, loin of venison with a coriander crust and Provencal vegetables or sautéed veal à la Provencal with plenty of garlic and fresh rosemary.