HEXA Amphora-Aged Cuvee, Bordeaux, France

HEXA was created by the Siozard family (Vignobles Siozard), an independent estate based in Lugaignac, France. The name Hexa comes from the Greek word for "six," representing the six distinct red grape varieties blended in equal parts (~17% each): Merlot, Malbec (Petite Vidure), Cabernet Sauvignon (Grosse Vidure), Cabernet Franc (Pressac), Petit Verdot, and Carmenère. It’s an outstanding pick for anyone craving the structural depth of classic French reds with a fresh, contemporary edge.

Tasting Notes & Food Pairings

The Profile: Bursting with intense aromas of ripe cassis, dark plum, and fragrant forest berries, opening up to a silky palate loaded with fresh blackberry crunch, soft spices, and a beautifully clean, mineral finish.

Classic Pairings: Pan-seared ribeye steak with garlic butter, roast duck breast with red fruit reduction, or a board of well-aged Comté cheese.

Irish Favourite Pairings:

• Dublin Coddle / Loaded Garlic & Cheese Chips. The vibrant natural acidity from amphora aging cuts straight through the melted cheddar and rich garlic sauce, while the soft, supple tannins complement savory pork sausages without clashing.
• Slow-Braised Irish Beef Featherblade or Venison Pie. The dark berry notes and subtle spice from the Malbec, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc mirror the richness of slow-simmered dark gravy, while the natural acidity cuts through the fat of prime Irish beef or game.

How the Wine Is Made

Created as a modern tribute to Bordeaux, Hexa blends six traditional red grape varieties in equal proportions (~17% each). The hand-picked grapes undergo gentle, temperature-controlled fermentation to preserve pure fruit aromatics before being aged for six months on fine lees in 750-liter egg-shaped Italian terracotta amphorae (TAVA). This oak-free approach allows subtle micro-oxygenation, creating a velvety texture while highlighting pure, unadulterated fruit flavor before every bottle is sealed by hand with custom wax.

Why We Love This Producer

Managed by sixth-generation twin brothers Laurent and David Siozard, Vignobles Siozard brings forward-thinking innovation to historical estate vineyards along the Dordogne. Blending deep-seated family heritage with curiosity, the brothers continually push regional limits with low-intervention techniques and unique aging vessels. Their passion for crafting energetic, expressive wines reflects a fresh, modern chapter for independent winemaking in France.

Sustainability & Farming Practices

• Certifications: Certified Organic, Terra Vitis, and Haute Valeur Environnementale (HVE Level 3).
• Vineyard Practices: The estate works without synthetic inputs, utilizing natural cover crops between vine rows to build soil health, encouraging natural biodiversity throughout the vineyards, and harvesting by hand to protect soil structure and vine longevity.