2022 Armand Heitz Juliénas Beaujolais Rouge, Beaujolais

Has a fine texture, and is fresh and vibrant. Dark cherry, redcurrant and leafy notes. Generous blueberry jam and cherry pie are present, as are firm tannins and lively acidity. Oak dominates but is balanced.

89 points Decanter

Armand Heitz is better known for his work in Burgundy, but his foray into Beaujolais shows the same thoughtful, site driven approach. Farming organically and working with growers who share that philosophy, he brings a light hand in the cellar, focusing on purity, balance and letting each cru speak. In Juliénas, where soils shift between granite, clay and schist, Gamay takes on a slightly broader, more structured profile compared to some of its neighbours.

The 2022 vintage offers both generosity and freshness. Aromatics open with ripe red cherry and raspberry, layered with a touch of darker plum. There is a gentle floral lift, violet and peony, along with a hint of spice and a soft earthy note that adds depth without weight.

On the palate it sits in that ideal middle ground, medium bodied with fine, supple tannins and a line of acidity that keeps everything moving. The fruit is open and inviting, but there is structure underneath, carrying the wine through to a lightly savoury finish with a touch of spice and mineral.

Winemaking leans traditional, with careful extraction and minimal intervention, preserving the brightness of the fruit while building a bit more texture and depth than a simple Beaujolais style. It feels polished but not overworked, very much about balance.

This is a versatile wine at the table. Roast chicken, pork with herbs, grilled sausages or a classic charcuterie spread all work beautifully. It also pairs well with earthy vegetable dishes where the wine’s subtle savoury edge can come through.

Enjoy it now with a slight chill to highlight its vibrancy, or cellar for five to eight years as it develops more spice, forest floor and a deeper savoury character.