Domaine de la Soufrandière, undoubtedly one of the finest and most consistent producers in the Mâconnais, made a sensational lineup of 2024s. The wines are all unique, reflecting their individual terroirs. Consumers can basically shoot blindfolded at Soufrandière’s 2024s and be happy with their choice. The fanciful label of the Aligoté, designed by a Japanese friend of the proprietors, is a play on words (arigato is thank you in Japanese). The Cuvée Zen designation indicates that the wine is almost sulfur-free – the only sulfur added was a trivial amount at the time of bottling. What is in the bottle is as distinctive as what is on the bottle. It displays the cutting and penetrating nature characteristic of the Aligoté grape, buttressed by more density than expected. It gains complexity with airing, so don’t rush it. Unsurprisingly, it would be a terrific choice for the plethora of flavors found in an omakase meal.
92 Michael Apstein – April 1, 2026