# La Carbonnode Cuvée Zen (2021)

- **Producer:** Domaine La Soufrandière
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** Burgundy, France
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 11.0%
- **Average price:** €33
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** peach, pear, apple, lemon, butter, cream

## About this wine

La Soufrandière's La Carbonnode 2021 is a Vin de France Chardonnay from Burgundy. The grapes are sourced from the La Bonnode vineyard, situated at 250 meters altitude at the base of Roche de Vergisson, with vines averaging 35 years old. The vineyard soil is a mix of limestone marl and light clay. Domaine La Soufrandière is a family estate managed by brothers Jean-Philippe and Jean-Guillaume Bret, who are committed to organic and biodynamic farming practices. The wine's distinctive character stems from its semi-carbonic maceration winemaking technique, a departure from traditional white wine production.

## Interesting facts

- The name 'La Carbonnode' is a blend of 'Carbonique' (for carbonic maceration) and the vineyard name 'La Bonnode'.
- This wine is classified as Vin de France, allowing for winemaking experimentation outside appellation rules.
- The vineyard is located at 250 meters altitude, facing east.
- Total sulfur levels are exceptionally low, around 26 mg/l.

## Food pairing

The wine's vibrant acidity and subtle tannic structure make it versatile. Acidity cuts through richer dishes and complements fatty fish, while the wine's texture can stand up to poultry and pork. Herbal notes in the wine can echo those in the food.

## Wine making process

The Chardonnay grapes for La Carbonnode are sourced from the La Bonnode vineyard. The winemaking process involves a 9-day semi-carbonic maceration of whole clusters in a closed tank, followed by pressing and fermentation in barrels. The wine then ages for 17 months in a mix of oak barrels and foudres. Harvests are done by hand. The domaine adheres to organic and biodynamic farming principles, with practices such as plowing vineyards and using herbal teas. Total sulfur content is kept very low.