WELCOME TO SOL! Introducing SOL—our newest Wine Club offering that captures the essence of sun-drenched escapes and Mediterranean daydreams. Inspired by the vibrant warmth of Ibiza, the charm of Barcelona, the glamour of Positano, and the coastal beauty of Portugal, SOL features wines from some of Europe’s most radiant regions.
We are enjoying one last month of traipsing through the sunny European shores and idyllic vacation spaces! Starting with the classic region of Provence, and ending in Sicily!
Chateau Sainte Croix Rose
The Château Sainte Croix is located in the majestic setting of Provence on the ancient lands of the Thoronet Abbey. It dominates 50 hectares of vines. Old fortified farm of the 12th century, Sainte Croix was inhabited by the Cistercian monks while they built the Thoronet Abbey three kilometers from here. In 1924, while the Pélépol family lives from its farm business, the opportunity to buy 5 hectares of vines is offered to her. At first, they carried the grapes to the cooperative cellar of Carcès but in 1927, Fernand Pélépol decided to create his first winery in the village. After a restoration of the old farm in ruins, the estate has grown over the years. It is the fourth generation, composed of Florence and Stéphane Pélépol, who continues the family adventure. From the top of its 35 hectares of vineyards, the Château includes various grape varieties, some of which, like the “Muscat”, have made the domain famous. The 15 hectares of remaining plots are located on the plateau of Carcès, caressed by the Mistral and the beautiful sun of Provence.
This beautiful rose is a classic example of Provence, made from a blend of Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault. Intense notes of raspberry, blackcurrant and rose scents enhanced by a hint of fresh pomelo. The mouth is unctuous, voluminous and slightly acidic, which gives it a great elegance.
Alessandro Viole Note di Bianco
Alessandro Viola Note di Bianco 2024 represents pure Sicilian winemaking from this 7-hectare organic estate near Alcamo. Made entirely from Grillo grapes grown on clay soils at 220 meters elevation, the wine benefits from cooling Mediterranean breezes that preserve natural acidity. Viola follows a non-interventionist philosophy: grapes undergo spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel, followed by six months aging on lees. The wine remains unfiltered and unfined, with no added sulfites. This natural approach allows the true expression of northwestern Sicily's unique terroir, where maritime influences meet mineral-rich soils to create wines of exceptional purity and character.
Bright aromas of ripe pear, citrus zest, and white flowers lead to a crisp palate showcasing lemon, stone fruits, and Mediterranean herbs. The wine's distinctive saline minerality reflects its coastal origins, while balanced acidity provides freshness. A subtle bitter almond note on the finish adds complexity to this vibrant natural wine.
Perfect with seafood risotto or Spain's Galician-style octopus. The wine's bright acidity and saline edge complement Mediterranean fare beautifully.