Sylvain Bock Suck a Rock Merlot 2022

Sylvain Bock is a natural winemaker based in the Ardèche region of France, renowned for its diverse terroirs and rich winemaking heritage. The Ardèche, situated in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, offers a variety of landscapes and climates favorable to vine cultivation. Vines have been growing in the Ardèche since antiquity, as archaeological research around Alba-la-Romaine has shown, and wine-growing is part of the land. Bock established his Domaine in 2010, focusing on organic and biodynamic viticulture. His vineyards are planted on basalt and limestone soils, with his main grapes being Grenache, Syrah, Merlot, and Gamay. He is known for producing zero/zero natural wines, meaning no additives or sulfites are used during winemaking. Bock's commitment to natural winemaking and his ability to craft wines that authentically express the Ardèche terroir have garnered him recognition among natural wine enthusiasts. His wines are celebrated for their rustic and soulful character, reflecting the region's unique qualities.

The Ardèche wine region is located in southern France, covering the Ardèche department and extending into the northern Gard department. It sits on the western banks of the Rhône River, bridging the northern and southern Rhône vineyards. The region is known for its diverse landscapes and climates, making it ideal for vine growing.

Ardèche wines have a long history, with evidence of viticulture dating back to antiquity. The region produces a variety of wines under the IGP (Indication Géographique Protégée) Ardèche designation, which was formerly known as Vin de Pays. This classification covers red, white, and rosé wines. Notable grape varieties include Grenache, Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Gamay, the indigenous Chatus for reds, and Chardonnay and Viognier for whites. Other varieties like Sauvignon Blanc, Clairette, Grenache Blanc, Ugni Blanc, Marsanne, and Roussanne are also cultivated.

The Ardèche region is characterized by its varied terroirs, including the mountainous central west, the high plateaux of the Haut-Vivarais and Cévennes, the Bas-Vivarais plains, and the volcanic Coiron plateau. The climate is predominantly Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The Mistral wind from the north and sea breezes from the south influence the region's weather, contributing to sudden heavy rainfall in spring and autumn. Soils are typically limestone and sandstone, with pebbly, thin soils in vineyard areas that promote good grape concentration.

The production in Ardèche is dominated by cooperatives, which account for 80-95% of the total output. The Union des Vignerons des Coteaux de l'Ardèche (UVICA) oversees 12 cooperatives, with additional independent cooperatives and private producers contributing to the region's wine diversity. Ardèche wines range from fresh and balanced whites to robust and tannic reds, with Chatus being a standout variety.