Discover Ridley Scott's Artistic Journey in Winemaking with Mas des Infermières

Ridley Scott: Filmmaker Turned Winemaker

Ridley Scott, the visionary director behind cinematic masterpieces like Alien and Gladiator, has taken his creativity from the big screen to the vineyards of southern France. Hidden among the stunning landscapes of the Luberon region lies Mas des Infermières, the vineyard Scott purchased in 1992, which has rapidly evolved into something remarkable.

A Brief Escape to Paris

As Scott navigates the world of filmmaking, he occasionally takes a break, such as his recent trip to Paris where he participated in the Wine Paris trade fair. During this event, he unveiled some of Mas des Infermières's latest releases, showcasing his wines to enthusiasts and critics alike. "I’m running an army the size of Napoleon’s,” Scott humorously remarked about managing a film crew while simultaneously overseeing his wine production.

From Hobby to Business

Initially, Scott didn’t have any aspirations to enter the wine business. He bought the estate for its beauty, not its potential profits. The vineyard started with only 27 acres of vines but has since expanded to 86. After several years of selling his grapes to a cooperative, Scott realized he could do better by making his own wine. The first vintage from his new on-site winery was produced in 2020. "I was paying for the labor, and they were making money from the wine," Scott recounted, marking a turning point in his winemaking journey.

Unique Wines for Every Palate

Today, Mas des Infermières produces around 200,000 bottles annually, ranging from affordable white, rosé, and red wines priced between $20 to $30. The estate recently introduced high-end cuvées, such as the Ombre de Lune and Imperatores, which reflect Scott's vision for quality and creativity in winemaking.

Scott’s Inspirations

The estate's name, which translates to “House of the Nurses,” honors its interesting historical ties to Napoleon's military medics. Scott even shared stories of feeling the presence of General Baron Robert, the former owner, as he enjoys a glass of wine made from grapes that thrive in the region’s unique terroir.

Sustainability at Its Core

As much as Scott cares about crafting exceptional wine, he is equally committed to sustainable practices. Mas des Infermières holds high environmental value certification and is Bee Friendly, ensuring the vineyard contributes positively to the ecosystem. "We have installed beehives and planted wildflowers between each row of vines, which strengthens the plants and helps create healthier wine," he explained.

A Personal Touch in Every Bottle

Scott’s artistic touch doesn’t end with the wine; he also designs the labels himself, incorporating sketches that reflect personal stories and passions, especially his love for dogs. Each bottle showcases a unique aspect of his personality and the essence of the Provence region.

What’s Next for Scott and Mas des Infermières?

Although Scott enjoys the wine journey, filmmaking remains his primary focus. His latest project, based on Peter Heller’s science fiction novel The Dog Stars, promises to be as thrilling as his previous works. For fans of both his films and wines, Scott's vineyard offers a peek into a world where creativity knows no bounds.

As the landscape of both cinema and winemaking continues to change, Ridley Scott stands poised to make a lasting impact in both arenas. For those looking to explore exceptional wines, the offerings from Mas des Infermières are well worth a taste.