Tricot Les 3 Bonhommes Pinot Noir 2023

Marie and Vincent Tricot are prominent natural wine producers based in Auvergne, France, a region known for its volcanic soils and historic winemaking traditions. They began their journey in 2002, drawn by the region’s unique terroir, including limestone, clay, and basalt soils. Their vineyards are certified organic, primarily cultivating Gamay d’Auvergne, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and smaller Sauvignon Blanc and Muscat plantings. Inspired by natural winemaking pioneers like Marcel Lapierre, the Tricots use minimal intervention methods such as, spontaneous fermentation, no added sulfur (except in small amounts for specific cuvées), aging in neutral vessels like fiberglass or barriques​. Their wines, such as Le Marcotte and Les 3 Bonhommes, are celebrated for expressing terroir. They showcase the volcanic minerality and bright acidity characteristic of the region. With a focus on purity and balance, their wines often display a vibrant, fresh quality.

The Auvergne wine region in central France is one of the country's oldest wine-producing areas. Historically significant, the region's viticulture dates back to Roman times. Auvergne's vineyards are primarily found in the departments of Puy-de-Dôme and Allier. The region's terroir is characterized by its volcanic soil, which provides a unique mineral profile to the wines produced here.

The climate in Auvergne is continental, with cold winters and warm summers. This climate and the region's altitude result in significant diurnal temperature variations, which are ideal for maintaining acidity and developing complex grape flavors. The vineyards are situated at elevations ranging from 350 to 600 meters above sea level, contributing to the distinctiveness of the wines.

The main grape varieties grown in Auvergne include Gamay and Pinot Noir for red wines and Chardonnay and Pinot Gris for white wines. Gamay is particularly prominent, producing light, fruity reds with a characteristic spiciness. Pinot Noir from this region tends to be elegant and aromatic, with good acidity. The white wines, primarily from Chardonnay, are known for their crispness and minerality.

Auvergne has several recognized appellations. The most notable is Côtes d'Auvergne, which received its Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) status in 2011. This appellation covers five subzones: Madargue, Châteaugay, Chanturgue, Boudes, and Corent, each offering distinct expressions of the region's terroir. Saint-Pourçain is another vital regional appellation known for both red and white wines.

In recent years, Viticulture in Auvergne has seen a resurgence, with a growing interest in organic and biodynamic farming practices. This shift reflects a broader trend in the wine industry towards sustainability and natural winemaking techniques. The region's producers are increasingly focused on quality over quantity, resulting in wines that are gaining recognition for their uniqueness and expression of terroir.

In summary, the Auvergne wine region, with its volcanic soils, diverse climate, and rich history, is an area of increasing interest in the French wine landscape. Its wines, characterized by freshness and minerality, offer a distinctive taste of this ancient yet revitalized region.