Our Story

Our Story

Domaine Messier is not only a part of our true namesake—“messier” means guardian of the harvest in old French—but it also bears the name of the astronomer, Charles Messier. It is from his catalogue of Messier Objects, 110 nebulae and star clusters, that we draw inspiration for our vineyard and winery.

Emblazoning each bottle of Domaine Messier wine, you will find artfully interpreted images of Messier Objects which correspond with each vintage produced. Our first vintage for 2022 begins with Messier 22, an elliptical globular cluster of stars located in the constellation of Sagittarius. Each vintage will be inspired by its corresponding Messier Object, and the labels will be inspired by NASA images for that Object. Soon we expect to enjoy astounding perspectives of Messier Objects from the James Webb Space Telescope. After 88 years of wine production (!), the cycle will reset to Messier 1.
Domaine Messier was born from Luc Messier, whose passion for farming came from his grandfather, Joseph, who was a farmer; and Julie Fette, whose love for California took the project to Carmel. Together, they acquired the property in 2018 with nothing on it but a vision for the future. The Domaine Messier vineyard is entirely off-grid and operates on solar power and well water. 20.5 acres of Pinot noir and Chardonnay vines were planted. Additionally, 500 olive trees now grow on the property in Ascolana, Aglandau, Picholine, Itrana, and Bouteillan varieties. Olive oil production will begin in 2026.

AN ANCIENT ART FOR
THE MODERN WORLD.

Domaine Messier wines are close to the earth, subject to unusual events, old in spirit, and will continue to yield their secrets. The 2024 wines are as radiant and mysterious as the globular cluster they’re named after, the Messier 24 object.

NEWS & EVENTS

Domaine Messier wine, Carmel California

Unveiling our 2022 rosé de pinot noir and 2022 chardonnay

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