(TheDrinksBusiness) - Having considered the use of natural corks and screwcaps for sealing wine, we wanted to look at the third most common option available to winemakers: synthetic closures. And it might be a surprise to learn that a fervent champion for these comes from Burgundy’s Côte d’Or; Laurent Ponsot from Domaine Ponsot in Morey-Saint-Denis. Why is it surprising? This ancient vine-growing area is not only famed for its fine wines, but also its natural viticultural approaches. Domaine Ponsot, although neither certified organic nor biodynamic, uses no insectides or pesticides, minimal manipulation of the wine and pays attention to lunar cycles. Nevertheless, Ponsot, who admits: “I am in love with nature,” has opted for a highly technical, synthetic seal. And this is not in an experimental capacity – everything he produces from the 2008 vintage is stoppered with a synthetic cork called AS-Elite by Ardea Seal.