# 5 Saouls Cinsault (2023)

- **Producer:** Matthieu Barret
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cinsault
- **Region:** Rhône, France
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 12.0%
- **Average price:** €18
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now
- **Serving temperature:** 12–14 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** strawberry, cherry, plum, black pepper

## About this wine

Matthieu Barret took over his family's estate, Domaine du Coulet in Cornas, in 1998. Affectionately known as 'Petit Ours Brun' (Little Brown Bear), Barret is celebrated for his biodynamic viticulture and non-interventionalist winemaking. While famous for intense Northern Rhône Syrahs, '5 Saouls' showcases his playful, light-hearted side. Sourced from limestone soils in Vallaurie within the Drôme Provençale region, this 100% Cinsault cuvée reflects pure fruit expression and high drinkability.

## Interesting facts

- Matthieu Barret is nicknamed 'Petit Ours Brun' (Little Brown Bear) by Rhône winemakers.
- Aged for 9 months in concrete egg-shaped vats to retain purity and avoid oak tannin.
- Crafted in a refreshing 'Clairet' style that bridges light red wine and dark rosé.
- Grown on organic and biodynamic limestone soils in Drôme Provençale.

## Food pairing

The wine's light body, soft low tannins, and vibrant acidity make it exceptionally friendly with charcuterie, white meats, and light Mediterranean dishes. High tannins can clash with subtle poultry or delicate spice, but this low-tannin Cinsault cleanses the palate without overwhelming lighter food components.

## Wine making process

Crafted from organically and biodynamically farmed Cinsault vines. Grapes are harvested manually to preserve acidity and fresh fruit character. Fermentation takes place with indigenous yeasts in concrete egg-shaped vats (cuves ovoïdes). Winemaking involves gentle maceration to minimize tannin extraction, creating a fresh 'Clairet' style red. The wine ages for 9 months in concrete vats with no oak influence, and is bottled unfined and unfiltered with low sulfur intervention.