Paul Baker
Google
We have visited every year since their start. Clos du Tilleul is one of the (almost secret) highlights of the Luberon. Lea and Mathieu Malbec are wonderful people and absolutely dedicated to their craft of growing grapes and making high-quality wines. Clos du Tilleul is one of those rarest of discoveries--a small family winery producing great, yet still affordable, wine. The Luberon can be challenging (too hot, too dry, too many boars, etc.) and not every vintage can be perfect, but here they always make a great wine. In our experience the CdT reds tend to be quite powerful and full-bodied, whites are sensuous and full of flavor, roses are a little more tasty than a traditional Provencal. We buy as much as we can drink during our stay in St. Sat. and then carry in our luggage back to the US. That is, if they are not sold out. Because wise restaurant owners all over France have also discovered this marvelous winery. Be sure to contact Lea in advance for a (very informal and fun) visit. Also, make sure to go down the road to purchase some wonderful honey or sunflower oil from Mathieu's sister.