Domaine des Masques, Blanc Cuvee Essentielle, 2020

ABOUT THE WINE. An olive-grove since the time of the ancient Gauls, the plateau near Aix-en-Provence upon which Le Domaine des Masques rests was settled by the Knights Templar of the Order of Provence in the Middle Ages. Vines were first planted in 1992, and in 2003 the estate was bought by Carl and Sophie Mestdagh. The vineyards are tended according to organic principles, although the estate has not sought certification. With duties in the cellar overseen by the famous Rhône winemaker, Yves Cuilleron, the estate is in excellent hands, and producing exceptional wines.. TASTING NOTES. Harvested a little earlier than the Exception, to preserve the fresh fruit-character of the wine. Vinification is in sealed vats to limit exposure to oxygen. Delicate citrus, peach, apple and pear aromas; fresh yet full-bodied on the palate.. FOOD PAIRING. An excellent aperitif, also perfect with grilled fish. A lovely wine with a cold lunch-spread.. FRIARWOOD SAYS. The reductive (oxygen-free) winemaking allows for the bare minimum of sulphur to be used in this wine.