How many times have we listened to music with a glass of wine in hand? Too many times to remember, for me! Now we have another reason to turn up the volume and pour the wine. Robert Wessman, owner of Maison Wessman, and Norah Jones, 10 time Grammy award winning musician, have successfully blended the French lifestyle with beautiful This Life wines that harken sunshine, warm days, breezy nights, soulful music, and relaxed experiences. Yes, please!
Just recently, I was sent two This Life wines (as samples) for sipping and inspiration. Wines are delicious, the price points are enticing, and with the voice of Norah Jones in the air, each sip brought me back to the Cote d’Azur.
Photo Credit: Maison Wessman
Maison Wessman is a Stunning Chateau with 86 Hectares Under Vine
Located southeast of Bordeaux is Maison Wessman. Robert Wessman, Icelandic businessman, bought Château de Saint-Cernin in the early 2000s with the goal of “creating a new wine estate that is distinct, bold, and exceptionally unique” with his wife Ksenia Wessman. Currently, vineyards cover 86 hectares from Bergerac to Limoux.
In 2025, Norah Jones and Michelin starred Chef Thierry Marx joined the venture as co-owners. Norah Jones is involved with This Life wines, a name chosen from a song that is meaningful to her, and Thierry Marx partners with the team on the restaurant, Maison Wessman par Thierry Marx, considered a “top bistro.” For more about this stunning estate, click HERE.
Photo Credit: Maison Wessman
This Life Wines are “A Melody in Every Glass”
From the South of France are This Life wines crafted by Norah Jones and the winemaking team at Maison Wessman. Fresh, balanced, and flavorful, each wine was a joy to sip on a summer-like spring afternoon on the sun-drenched patio.
A blend of mostly Chardonnay along with Chenin Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Mauzac is This Life Sparkling Wine Cremant de Limoux 2024 ($25), made in the traditional method whereby the second fermentation is in the bottle. Persistent bubbles were a delight from the first sip to the last. Savory aromas of orchard fruit, yellow and white florals, and peaches wafted from the glass. On the balanced palate, I found fresh citrus, hazelnuts, and bright acidity leading to a lingering finish. Pair with oysters on the half shell, potato chips, popcorn, and your favorite Norah Jones tune.
This Life Rose 2024 ($17) is a brilliant wine of Grenache and Syrah. Freshly picked strawberries, aromatic rose petals, citrus, and white flowers were mesmerizing on the nose. On the palate, high acidity lifted notes of red fruits, citrus, and spice. The finish was savory and simply elegant-more, please! Late afternoon sips complemented a plate of soft cheeses and crudites after which a light pasta dish was enjoyed. This Life Rose will also be a lovely wine with grilled fish and any classic Mediterranean dish along with fresh fruit desserts.
You can’t wait for sips from the South of France and music from Norah Jones? I’m right there with you!
Cheers! ~ Cindy
