Domaine Sohler Pinot Noir "Cuvée Mateo by Dionysos" 2018 750mL

We didn't travel to Alsace looking for red wine, but we noticed during tastings that the Pinot Noirs from the region were of excellent quality - consistently exceeding our expectations. The "Cuvée Mateo by Dionysos" from Domaine Sohler was an absolute standout and we made an exception to our "one producer per region" rule so that we could bring it to Australia. 

Pinot Noir in Alsace historically had a difficult time ripening, but with climate change, it is now enjoying perfect growing conditions. Due to space constraints and barrel ageing requirements, this wine is only made every second year. The 2018 production is certified as "High Environmental Value", the 2020 was in conversion to organic, and the 2022 is expected to be certified organic & biodynamic (stay tuned).

Hand harvested, aged in barriques for 12 months, not filtered. The secondary flavours and fine tannins from the oak are seamlessly integrated, perfectly supporting the fruit.

Give it 60 minutes to open up to find a lovely balance of earthiness and ripe fruits - red and black cherry most prominent. I didn't notice it at at the estate tasting or when we first opened it here, but the next day there was a distinct truffle note on the nose. That's a sign that it should continue to evolve and benefit from time in the cellar. The winemaker, Marine Sohler, thinks it's in its prime drinking window for the next couple of years, but it wouldn't surprise us if it improves for another 5-10 years.

There are some delicate savoury flavours, which are reminiscent of BBQ shapes for me. I'm sure there is a more sophisticated sounding collection of flavours I could replace that with, but can't help where my palate's memory takes me. Also a hint of herbal tea, though it's possible I'm imagining that while I think about Marine pouring herbal tea along the base of the vines, during a particular cycle of the moon, as part of her organic and biodynamic approach to winemaking.

Other than that truffle note, 6 years in the cellar have also delivered a touch of luscious balsamic on the palate.

Silky tannins, black cherries, with a lovely balance and vivacity. Pair with smoked meats, grilled red meat, dark Ecuadorian chocolate.