Smooth, solid, value-focused blend of Southern Rhône red grapes—Grenache Noir, Syrah, and Carignan—produced by a cooperative formed by the merger of two cooperatives with histories up to a century old and traditions dating back more than 2,000 years. $14-18
Maison Sinnae is a Southern Rhône cooperative farming west of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, on the right bank of the Rhône (the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation is on the left bank). The cooperative represents more than 140 winegrowing families working 5,800 acres of vineyard land that spans the historic villages of Laudun and Chusclan. Its modern origins trace to 1925 with the founding of the Caves des Vignerons de Laudun. The Vignerons de Chusclan followed in 1939. The two merged in 2008, and the joint effort was rebranded as Maison Sinnae in 2018.
The area’s wine history is much older, reflected in the Maison Sinnae name. The story begins more than 2,000 years ago in Roman times. Caesar’s Camp, one of the region’s important archaeological sites, is on a plateau overlooking the villages. The Romans established the vineyard and wine legacy, laying a foundation for the Southern Rhône wine region. Maison Sinnae’s name was inspired by Caesar’s wife, Cornelia Sinnae. [“Sinnae” is a Renaissance spelling of Cornelia’s family name of “Cinna”.]
Both cooperatives put a historic emphasis on environmentally friendly viticulture. Many of the co-op’s vineyards have HVE (Haute Valeur Environnementale) and Terra Vitis certifications, and there is ongoing adoption of organic farming. Typically, the wines are fruit-driven and food-friendly—this is an example. Annual production is some eight million bottles. They claim their co-op embodies “Caesar’s love for Sinnae and the passion of winemakers for their land and their work.”
Enfant Terrible bottlings are pitched to entry-level wine drinkers. Grapes are picked at full maturity to facilitate a fresh, ripe-fruit-forward style. Later harvesting results in softer structure, forgoing complexity and length to enhance approachability for a younger, hipper consumer. The graffiti labels reflect this attitude and marketing slant.
Enfant Terrible, Côtes du Rhône Red Wine 2022: Deep garnet color; strawberry, raspberry, blackberry, cherry, sweet spice, subtle floral notes on the nose and palate.
Dry, with illusion of some sweetness from the ripe grapes; soft, plush tannins; bright acidity. Medium body; smooth mouthfeel; very approachable. Grenache Noir leads the blend, supported by Syrah and Carignan. The grapes are classic Southern Rhône varieties. This is Maison Sinnae’s take on an entry-level, easy-drinking wine that is modern and clean with a moderate finish and modest complexity. Best drunk now. It is a weekday pour, not a powerhouse that needs aging. If you do not find this vintage, a newer one should work just fine. 13.5% ABV
Pairing—Grilled meats: beef, lamb, mixed grill, sausages, burgers, grillades; roast chicken, turkey thighs. Simple game dishes (no heavy sauces): duck, pheasant, rabbit. Tapas, charcuterie, bistro plates; pizza with cured meats, tomato-based sauces; midweek casseroles. Cheese—Soft bloomy-rind, Brie de Meaux, camembert, Coulommiers; mild Munster; semi-soft, Tomme de Savoie, Cantal Jeune, young gouda, St-Nectaire; young or semi-aged sheep’s milk, Ossau-Iraty. Avoid big aged cheeses, pungent washed-rind.
