Why it matters
The producer
Wine, seasonal fruit and hospitality share the estate at Domaine Saint Thomas. The Savoldelli family runs the property in Argelès-sur-Mer, where Gîtes de France lodges stand alongside wine production and seasonal fruit production. The estate's farming philosophy puts soil before the winemaker.
HEV certification is a French environmental farming standard covering biodiversity, plant protection, fertilisation and water use. At Domaine Saint Thomas, that certification sits alongside a family led approach to the land.
Place and vineyards
Where the wines begin
Argelès-sur-Mer is the estate's home in Languedoc Roussillon. Its Muscat de Rivesaltes carries an appellation for sweet fortified Muscat, placing the wine in a category distinct from dry table wine.
Wines to know
The range in view
The named range includes Muscat de Rivesaltes and Cuvée Douceur, both centred on Muscat d'Alexandrie. The 2019 Muscat de Rivesaltes is the appellation bottling, while Cuvée Douceur is a separate cuvée with pairings that run from aperitif and foie gras to blue cheeses, tangy desserts with exotic fruits and Roussillon apricot tart. The range is organised around the same grape, with the appellation wine and the cuvée carrying separate names.
Cuvée Douceur is pale yellow with bright green reflections. Its nose moves through lychee, passion fruit, lemon, orange blossom and honey. The palate starts lively and expands aromatically, with sweetness balanced by acidity through the finish.