Once upon a time, two childhood friends had a dream. Souleil was inspired by the story of a friendship that led to the creation of a bold and committed wine. "Soleil" in ancient French, and the word Souleil holds the English word "soul"... Introducing a brand that lives up to its name.
Photo credit: Doris Poe & David Fritz Goeppinger
Born and raised in the South of France, surrounded by the ocean waves, oysters and vineyards, Marianne and Thomas grew up in a sun-soaked region with wine as an integral part of its cuisine and aperitifs. After years of cultivating their expertise, they have fostered the dream of creating their own wine. A wine that would reflect their philosophy and their commitments. Or in other words, an organic wine that can be enjoyed both as an aperitif and at dinner, and which would personify the French art of living. Souleil Vin de Bonté, which was produced in the beautiful region where they grew up, has a strong international reputation. These same commitments have recently led them here, in Mauritius.
A Mediterranean flavoured wine
The artistic and trendy look of their bottles sets the tone. Souleil Vin de Bonté has a range of different, creative and bold wines. Both modern and accessible, their wine selection expresses the conviviality, warmth and beauty of the Mediterranean region, with a feeling of savouring the pleasures of summer all year round.
Photo credit: Doris Poe & David Fritz Goeppinger
The aim of Marianne and Thomas was to create a wine that mirrors the sunny region in which they grew up. Souleil's Vin de Bonté is carefully crafted from organic grapes grown near the Mediterranean. The grapes are de-stemmed, macerated and fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve the natural acidity and freshness of the wine.
The perfectly balanced red has hints of sun-dried Mediterranean herbs and is best served slightly chilled for an enhanced tasting experience. The white is a rich, fruity blend of flavours with a saline touch and acidity that pairs well with seafood or cheese. As for the rosé, it is distinctive for its freshness and mineral flavours which make it the perfect aperitif wine. These wines are just as enjoyable under the Mediterranean sun as in the tropical climate of Mauritius!
Photo credit: Doris Poe & David Fritz Goeppinger
A brand that is committed and responsible
To extend their eco-responsible approach, the two friends decided to use eco-friendly bottles, labels and packaging made from recycled paper. Their commitment extends beyond their product: they are engaged in supporting ecological actions in all the countries where the brand is distributed - yes, including on our beautiful island!
Their joint passion for the ocean has prompted Marianne and Thomas to support organisations such as 5MinuteFoundation. Established in Costa Rica in 2018 by a nature-loving couple, this non-profit organisation holds beach clean-ups, conducts awareness campaigns and participates in the recycling of marine debris in around 100 countries around the world. Souleil Vin de Bonté strives to highlight the work of its partners and to support their actions through the donation of a portion of their profits.
Their dedication to protecting our oceans and beaches drove them to Mauritius, where Marianne's sister, Alexandra, and her husband, Maesh Soonea, serve as spokespeople for the brand. On April 8th, Souleil Vin de Bonté sponsored a "Beach Clean Up" initiated by Reef Conservation and Bis Lamer in Grand Gaube.
Souleil Vin de Bonté is, as promised, incredibly tasty. This wine is a good reminder that treating ourselves and caring for our planet can go hand in hand!
Available at Le Connoisseur shops.