Domaine Sophie Cinier Bourgogne Rouge le Clos 2020

Sophie’s tiny estate, which produced its first wines in 2000, has deep roots in Fuissé through her mother’s side of the family, who have been involved in wine production since at least her grandfather's time. Vines planted by her grandfather in 1941 returned to Sophie's care when she came back in 1998, resulting in a charming range of wines from this small Domaine. Recently, the vineyard area has expanded to nearly four hectares. Sophie acquired a new 1.2-hectare vineyard in Igé, located 10 miles north of Fuissé, planting one hectare with Chardonnay for two new wines—a Bourgogne Blanc and a Mâcon Villages Le Clos—and 0.2 hectares with Pinot Noir.

Unlike much of the Mâconnais region, where machine harvesting is common, all vineyard work at Sophie’s estate is done manually. She doesn’t own a functioning tractor, only an old, rusting one in her yard. With the increased vineyard area requiring more labour, her partner Alain has joined the business. The goal is to transition the vineyards to fully organic practices.

Her sole red wine, made with whole bunches and 16  months in old oak barrels, is subtle and delicate (just 11.5%!) with lovely red berry aromas and a hint of smokiness. Long and pure, the tannins are just a wisp and the acidity in the finish makes it extremely moreish.