Matassa Rouge 2025

Tom Lubbe is a New Zealander who grew up in South Africa. In the late 90’s, Tom was working at the only estate in South Africa using indigenous yeasts and lower yields. He helped innovate and shape the wine scene in South Africa and forged the space for winemakers like Craig Hawkins (Testalonga) whom spent several vintages working with Tom to flourish.  Interested in working with Mediterranean varietals, Tom managed to score a 3-month internship at the legendary Domaine Gauby in the village of Calce. Gérard Gauby quickly befriended Tom and asked him to come back for three consecutive vintages as cellar helper. During that time, Tom met his wife Nathalie, who just so happens to be Gérard’s sister. The birth of their first child halted Tom’s plan of returning to South Africa, opting instead to stay in Calce and start his own estate.

Tom is certified organic by Ecocert and uses biodynamic techniques such as Preparation 500 and various plant fermentations to activate and nourish his soils. His wines have seen a huge evolution as the health of his old vine vineyards and his understanding of how to work with them has developed. His cuvees have captured the hearts and minds of sommeliers and wine drinkers worldwide.