# Sauvage Blanc (2022)

- **Producer:** Domaine Saint-Cyr
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Sauvignon Blanc
- **Region:** Beaujolais, France
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €27
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** peach, apricot, lemon, herbaceous, butter, cream, dried apricot

## About this wine

Domaine Saint-Cyr was established in Anse in 1963 by Pierre Saint-Cyr. When Raphaël Saint-Cyr took over in 2008, he converted the estate to certified organic viticulture, making it one of the largest organic estates in Beaujolais. Sauvage Blanc is an unusual creation in a region dominated by Gamay and Chardonnay. Inspired by winemaking experiences in New Zealand, Raphaël planted Sauvignon Blanc in the limestone soils of Pierres Dorées. Because the variety is not permitted under Beaujolais AOC regulations, this wine is classified as Vin de France.

## Interesting facts

- Sauvignon Blanc is not an authorized Beaujolais AOC variety, so this wine is declassified as Vin de France.
- Domaine Saint-Cyr converted to 100% organic farming in 2008 and is now one of the region's largest organic estates.
- Annual production of Sauvage Blanc is limited to a micro-allocation of approximately 2,000 bottles.

## Food pairing

The combination of vibrant natural acidity and rich lees texture makes this wine ideal for rich seafood, poultry, and goat cheeses. High acidity cuts through creamy textures while barrel weight stands up to tender proteins.

## Wine making process

Grapes are hand-harvested from a 15-year-old single parcel in clay-limestone soil. Whole clusters are directly pressed without clarification. Spontaneous fermentation takes place in neutral oak barrels using indigenous yeasts, followed by complete natural malolactic fermentation. The wine is aged on full lees in old oak barrels for 24 months. It is bottled without added sulfites, fining, or filtration.