Discover the Mediterranean With The Sunny Spirit of Souleil Vins de Bonté
Souleil Vins de Bonté is a breath of fresh air from the heart of Southern France. This isn't just wine; it's a passion project, deeply rooted in respect for its sun-drenched terroir..
Imagine vineyards where the Mistral wind whispers secrets through the vines, carrying the intoxicating scent of wild herbs and ripening grapes. This is Souleil's soul. What makes them so captivating is their dedication to crafting wines that are both approachable and wonderfully expressive, wines that genuinely sing of the Southern France character without any stuffiness.
"Vins de Bonté" – wines of goodness, wines of kindness. This isn't just a charming name; it's the very ethos that permeates everything they do. Souleil isn't chasing fleeting trends or aiming for those over-the-top, blockbuster styles. Instead, they champion balance, elegance, and, above all, wines that bring pure, unadulterated joy to your glass. Picture yourself sharing a bottle with cherished friends on a warm evening, laughter and conversation flowing as seamlessly as the wine you're savoring.
They're the kind of quality value producer you feel like you've unearthed, a delightful secret you can't wait to share with fellow wine lovers. Their blends, often featuring the classic Rhône grapes like Picpoul, Cinsault, Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, are harmonious, vibrant, and brimming with personality.
Close your eyes. Take a sip. Suddenly, you're whisked away to the sun-drenched Mediterranean coast. That's the magic I experienced tasting the latest 2024 vintage of Souleil with the delightful founder, Marianne Fabre-Lanvin, at Wine Paris this past February. It wasn't just a tasting; it was a vivid sensory journey. I could almost hear the gentle rhythm of waves lapping the shore, feel the warmth of the sun dancing on the water, and imagine the joyful murmur of friends sharing a perfect moment nearby. It was an instant transport to a blissful seaside escape.
The unifying thread? Freshness, elegance, and sheer drinkability. These are wines meant for sharing, for sunshine-filled afternoons and the easy camaraderie of good company. They embody a bon vivant attitude with a never-ending summer spirit. And what's inside the bottle has beautifully inspired the outside. The distinctive labels, designed by the New York-based agency Polonsky & Friends, draw inspiration from vintage Southern French Eau de Cologne labels, achieving a nostalgic yet distinctly contemporary French aesthetic. Behind this thoughtful branding is Anna Polonsky, the founder and creative director of Polonsky & Friends, an agency known for its mission-driven projects that emphasize quality, craftsmanship, and community enrichment within the food industry.
Meet the Souleil Trio: A Taste of the Sun
Le Blanc 2023: Imagine a burst of Mediterranean sunshine in a glass! This lively blend (93% Piquepoul, 4% Terret Blanc, 3% Ugni Blanc) zings with bright citrus notes of lemon and grapefruit, beautifully underscored by hints of white peach and a refreshing touch of minerality. Its crisp acidity makes it the perfect aperitif or a delightful partner to light seafood dishes.
Le Rosé 2023: Delicate and dry, this elegant rosé (95% Grenache, 5% Cinsault) whispers of fresh strawberries and raspberries, intertwined with subtle floral undertones. Its vibrant acidity and clean finish make it incredibly versatile – think crisp salads, grilled vegetables, or light, flavorful Mediterranean cuisine.
Le Rouge 2023: Smooth and inviting, this red blend (65% Syrah, 35% Grenache) offers juicy red fruit flavors like ripe cherry and plum, framed by soft tannins and a gentle hint of spice. Easy-drinking yet with satisfying depth, it's your go-to for casual gatherings or alongside simple pleasures like grilled turkey Italian sausages with orzo salad.
But Souleil Vins de Bonté is about so much more than just crafting delicious wines. They've woven a deep commitment to community and environmental care into their very essence. It is more than a beverage, it’s a conscious choice to support a better world. Here's how Souleil pours its heart back
Supporting Marine Conservation: Imagine savoring a crisp white wine knowing that a portion of what you paid is directly contributing to the health of our precious oceans. Souleil dedicates a share of its profits to impactful organizations working tirelessly to protect marine ecosystems, tackling the urgent issue of ocean pollution. Their dedicated partners include VJBRPC in the USA, 5 Minute Foundation in Costa Rica, Project Rescue Ocean in France, and Reef Conservation & Bis Lamer in Mauritius.
Fostering Community Engagement: The founders envisioned their wine as a catalyst for connection, bringing "radiance and goodness" to every gathering. Their vision extends beyond the shared clink of glasses, with active plans for collaborations on beach cleanups, uniting communities across continents in a shared mission. These initiatives not only help preserve our coastlines but also raise crucial awareness for their non-profit partners' vital work, encompassing hands-on cleanups, innovative plastic upcycling programs, and essential environmental education.
Sustainable Practices from Vine to Bottle: Souleil's commitment to the planet runs deep. They've integrated sustainable practices into every step of their production process. From the organically farmed grapes, certified by ECOCERT, ensuring the health of the land, to their thoughtful packaging choices – recyclable materials, including recycled paper labels – and the use of lightweight glass bottles to minimize their carbon footprint, sustainability isn't just an afterthought; it's a core principle.
Ultimately, Souleil Vins de Bonté strives to be more than just a delightful taste of the Mediterranean sun. It's a testament to the idea that businesses can be a force for good, embodying the vibrant spirit of the region while actively contributing to a healthier environment and fostering meaningful community engagement. So, uncork a bottle, savor the taste, and know that you're part of something truly good.
