Domaine Milan
– Provence, France
The Milan family’s estate in Saint-Remy-de-Provence was founded in 1956 by Robert Milan. His son, Henri Milan, took over in the mid-80s and broke away from the Baux de Provence AOC to have the freedom to create wines in his own way. Organic and natural, influenced by Claude Courtois and Claude Bourguignon.
Now, his son Théophile represents the third generation, making wine with his wife Natalie alongside winemaker Sebastien Xavier. The domaine produces distinctive wines, including sparkling and orange wines, and has gained international recognition for their purity and expression of terroir.
Domaine Milan is located in Saint-Remy-de-Provence, nestled on the hills at the foot of the Alpilles. The domain experiments with grape varieties and winemaking techniques rarely seen in Provence. The vineyard is organically managed and features a variety of grapes, including Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Grenache Blanc, Rolle, Roussanne, Bourboulenc, Chardonnay, and also Savagnin, Merlot & Chenin blanc!
They avoid chemical treatments, with the only exception being a small amount of sulfur dioxide, which is occasionally used during bottling.
In the cellar, Théo Milan vinifies different sections of the vineyard separately and emphasizes natural fermentation. Grapes are blended at the start of fermentation rather than at the end. Their focus on minimal intervention results in wines that reflect the purity and terroir of the region. Théo vinifies different sections of the vineyard separately, allowing the wines to exhibit distinct characteristics from various parts of the vineyard.
If you’re looking for a special wine to enjoy this holiday season, the S & X 2017 is one of Théo’s favorites. The late-harvested, nearly overripe grapes give the wine a rich yet refreshing balance. Crafted by Sébastien Xavier, the cellar master, this 100% Grenache Noir offers an interesting combination of dark fruit, coffee, and cacao aromas.
Cultivation: 20 ha (size of the farm: 30 ha)
Production: 6000 bottles/year.
Varieties: Grenache, Syrah, Grenache Blanc, Rolle, Roussanne, Chardonnay,
Approach: Organic/ Biodynamic
Certifications: Certified – Organic by Ecocert Bureau Veritas (1998, CER-OPT59872-C163168)
Sulfites: X
