2022 Daniel Bouland Chatenay Organic Chiroubles, Beaujolais

Perched between Morgon and Fleurie at around 400 metre s above sea level, the vineyards of Chiroubles are the highest in Beaujolais. The vines sit on the upper slopes and in general, produce a Beaujolais that can be, to quote Gerald Asher, all “…lacy texture and sleek charm.” Bouland’s Chiroubles has a bit more stuffing than that. It comes from a 0.65-hectare parcel of 35- to 45-year-old vines on the steep, ridged incline of Chatenay, which has the typical granite and sandstone soils of the Cru. Protected by a nearby forest, it’s a warm, north-facing site.

So much perfume here, woven with berries, flowers, earth and stoney scents. Already a model of irresistibility, it is overflowing with flavour and freshness.