Domaine Clef de Saint Thomas
(An Online Virtual Visit)
by
Terry Sullivan
Images provided by
Domaine Clef de Saint Thomas
unless otherwise noted.
This article about Domaine Clef de Saint Thomas is based on an online interview, online data and photos supplied by the winery. We also received a tasting sample. The article was written during the time of the worldwide 2020-2021 pandemic. Emeline de LAFONTAN de Goth, Comerciale Export/Export Sales, responded to our questions and supplied the photos.
Summary: In the 14th century the papacy was moved to Avignon. During those years, area wines evolved from obscurity to world acclaim. Domaine Clef de Saint Thomas was named in 2006 when a previous winery was sold. The domaine now crafts wines from the famous Châteauneuf-du-Pape Appellation.
History
During the 14th century, when Pope Clement V (1303 - 1314) relocated the papacy to Avignon he became aware of the terroir around Avignon. Wines from the area were not world class. Later, his successor, Pope John XXII (1316 - 1334) had a fortress built and the Châteauneuf-du-Pape (the Pope's new castle) wines improved to be recognized beyond the region.
Jump ahead several centuries and Domaine Clef de Saint Thomas was formally Domaine des Relagnes. After having success with the purchase of Château Calissanne in Provence, Philippe Kessler and his wife Sophie Kessler Matière (pictured left) purchased the winery and some of the vineyards in 2006. It was always a dream of Philippe Kessler to acquire a vineyard in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. When the estate was purchased the name was changed to Domaine Clef de Saint Thomas. Philippe and Sophie have a son named Thomas.
Vineyards
Eleven hectares (27 acres) make up the estate of Domaine Clef de Saint Thomas. Since the estate is located on a stony plateau, the sandy and chalky soils are covered with pebbles and rocks. There are three distinct soil types. One is the classic Châteauneuf pebbles. Another soil is made of safre a type of sandy rock. The third type of soil is composed of sand and clay.
The pebbles and rocks absorb heat from the sun and release the heat throughout the day. White varieties planted in the vineyard include: Bourboulenc, Clairette, Grenache Blanc and Roussanne. Red varietal grapes planted include mostly Grenache Noir with a bit of Mourvèdre and Syrah.
Harvesting usually takes place in the middle of September. All grapes are hand harvested. Only estate grapes are used to craft the Domaine Clef de Saint Thomas wines.
Winemaking
In such a prestigious area, there are many enjoyable aspects of winemaking. Emeline mentioned that the great vines and beautiful terroir lead to wines that win awards. The domaine would like the public to know that there are great Châteauneufs that can age for decades as well as those that are easy drinking that wine enthusiasts can open now.
Wine
We receive a sample box of a Domaine Clef de Saint Thomas wine. This was part of the Hopwine Fair that took place in March 2021 online. The sample was 20 ml, enough for a tasting. (Pictured right by Wine Trail Traveler).
The 2018 La Clef de Saint Thomas, AOP Châteauneuf-du-Pape had an opaque dark ruby color. The 15.5% alcohol wine was an almost equal blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Black fruits predominated the aroma. The taste was reminiscent of juicy, black raspberries and spices notably pepper and baking spices. The wine had a full body and medium tannins. The finish was fruity and spicy. The wine would pair with duck or cheese.
Wine Tourism
Domaine Clef de Saint Thomas does not have a tasting room. Visitors can taste the domain’e wines while visiting Château Calissanne in Provence.
Wine and Food
Cheese platers and mushroom risotto pair well with the wines from Domaine Clef de Saint Thomas. The Domaine Clef de Saint Thomas Rouge pairs wonderfully with slow cooked wild boar.
While in Provence, visit Château Calissanne where you can taste Château Calissanne wines and Domaine Clef de Saint Thomas wines.
Domaine Clef de Saint Thomas at Château Calissanne
RD n° 10 13680
Lançon-Provence, France
Article written April 2021.
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