Guy Steinmaier, a Burgundian by birth, moved to the tiny hamlet of Les Celettes near Saint-Gervais in the early 1960s. Starting off with a selection of rather degenerate vines, he laid down the foundations of Domaine Sainte-Anne, which is now one of the leading producers of Côtes-du-Rhône and Côtes-du-Rhône Villages. Today it is run by his 2 sons, Jean and Alain.
Presentation
Presentation
The estate has grown in reputation with wines showing a Burgundian-like finesse. As far back as the 1990s, Robert Parker described this as 'one of the best estates in the entire Rhône Valley' and suggests the wines could be regarded as 'mini-Beaucastel and/or Bandol', wines which cost two or three times as much. This bottling is delightful blend of the three main varieties of the north from the leading estate in Saint-Gervais with pleasing freshness.
Location
The Steinmaier's vineyard covers 32 hectares. It is located on a plateau, at an altitude of 200 meters, facing southwest towards the Cevennes. This is a much higher altitude than the average for the Côtes-du-Rhône Villages, which hardly exceeds 80 meters. Sainte-Anne therefore benefits from a relatively cool microclimate for the region.
Terroir
Limestone sandstone, altitude 200 m, south-west facing.
In the vineyard
Cover all the vines with grass, in particular to prevent erosion. It is important to know that the storms here are extremely violent. The grassing maintains the soil and also allows the creation of microorganisms that keep the land alive. A naked ground is impoverished.
Winemaking
Vinification in stainless steel vat.
Ageing
Aged in oak barrel for 12 months.
Varietals
Syrah : 70%
Grenache noir : 30%
Grenache noir : 30%
Specifications
Alcohol content : 14,5 % vol.
Contains sulphites. Does not contain egg or egg products. Does not contain milk or milk-based products.
Advice
Serving
T° of service : 12°C / 54°F.
Tasting
A nose of great finesse and elegance, with aromas of smooth black berries, flowers and vanilla pod. On the palate, the wine is smooth, full-bodied and fruity, with tannins that blend pleasantly with the wine. A well-balanced freshness with notes of blackberry, spice and vanilla that linger on the palate with finesse and delicacy.
Food pairings
A wine to accompany a mature rib of beef or marinated poultry.
