SAINT-DAMIEN

Domaine Saint Damien is a family-run estate located in Gigondas, in the southern Rhône Valley of France. Established in 1979 by Joël Saurel and named after a now-vanished chapel near the property, the domaine has deep roots in the region, with the Saurel family cultivating vines there since 1821. In 2011, Joël’s son, Romain Saurel, joined the estate and assumed full management in 2015. The domaine spans around 22 hectares of vineyards, including 12 hectares in the Gigondas appellation and additional plots in the Côtes du Rhône Villages Plan de Dieu. The vineyards are predominantly planted with old-vine Grenache, along with Mourvèdre, Syrah, and Cinsault, some of which date back to the 1940s. Since 2012, the estate has been certified organic, highlighting its commitment to sustainable viticulture.

Domaine Saint Damien adheres to traditional winemaking practices. Fermentation is carried out in concrete vats, and aging is conducted in large, old oak foudres, allowing the wines to showcase their terroir with clarity and authenticity. Among its standout cuvées is the Gigondas Vieilles Vignes, a blend of Grenache and Mourvèdre from vines planted in the 1960s and 1970s, known for its balance and finesse.