Domaine Saumaize-Michelin (Vergisson)

Roger Saumaize is at the top of the hierarchy in the southern Mâconnais and his wines always show a perfect balance of generous ripe fruit, well-integrated oak and stimulating minerality. He is a great enthusiast of biodynamic viticulture (without certification) and maybe here, more than anywhere else, one notices the extra freshness and energy this practice promises. Following the announcement of the 1er Crus in Poully-Fuissé we are delighted to see the Clos Sur La Roche vineyard receive the recognition its so richly deserves as a 1er Cru site.

The next generation are now steering the ship, with Lisa Saumaize and her brother Vivian taking on the day-to-day challenges. When I arrived in Vergisson on a glorious sunny day I was greeted enthusiastically by Lisa. After touring the cellar, we sat in their huge farm kitchen and tasted our way through the 2024s. When I asked about how the 2024 vintage was for them, Lisa bluntly replied "Pluie. Beaucoup de pluie." However, her enthusiasm for this vintage, despite its hardship in the vines, was infectious. Whilst the conditions made work in the vineyard tough, Lisa said the wines are of excellent quality and this is a true "connoisseurs" vintage. Discussing this whilst stood under the Rock of Vergisson, surrounded by their vines, in brilliant autumn sunshine it was not hard see why Lisa was so enthusiastic about this vintage