Bastide du Claux was founded by Sylvain Morey, the son of Jean-Marc Morey, our long-adored vigneron in Chassagne-Montrachet. Thoughtful and strong-minded Sylvain left Burgundy determined to find his own way, settling down south in the historical but lesser-known region of the Luberon. We heard tales over the years of Sylvain’s “experiment” down south, but never found the time to take a closer look at his work. It was not until Sylvain returned to Burgundy, spurred by Jean-Marc’s retirement, to establish his own Domaine in Chassagne-Montrachet, that we were encouraged to make a visit to his small but interesting estate. To our delight, we were presented with a series of excellent wines which combine the elegance and purity of his experience in Burgundy with the unique cepages and terroirs of the Luberon. This cuvée is primarily a blend of Vermentino and Grenache Blanc, made from southwest-facing parcels on sandy soils. It contains seven different white varietals (also: Clairette, Ugni Blanc, Rousanne, Marsanne, and Viognier), undergoes a natural fermentation, and is then aged on the fine lees in mostly concrete. A small portion is aged in older oak barrels for 9 months before being bottled.