2023 Bernard Metrat Chiroubles La Scandaleuses, Beaujolais

Bernard Metrat Chiroubles La Scandaleuses from Beaujolais is a wine that delights with its expressive character and impeccable balance. Located in the heart of the Beaujolais region, Chiroubles is one of the ten crus of Beaujolais, known for producing wines that are fresh, vibrant, and full of finesse. Bernard Metrat, a passionate and skilled winemaker, has a deep commitment to producing wines that reflect the terroir of Beaujolais with respect for traditional winemaking methods. His vineyard practices are sustainable, focusing on the health of the land and vines, while also embracing modern techniques to preserve the purity of the fruit.

The "La Scandaleuses" label speaks to the audacious and bold personality of this wine. It’s a name that hints at the wine's captivating nature—a bold expression of Beaujolais’ gamay grape, but with a twist. Metrat's approach to crafting this wine involves hand-harvesting the grapes at optimal ripeness and fermenting them in a way that maintains the wine's natural freshness and vibrancy. The wine is aged in a combination of stainless steel and small barrels, allowing the fruit to express its true nature while also developing subtle layers of complexity.

In the glass, Bernard Metrat Chiroubles La Scandaleuses is a beautiful bright ruby red, with a slight purple hue. The nose is immediately aromatic, bursting with vibrant red fruits like strawberry, raspberry, and cherry. There are also hints of floral notes, such as violets, combined with a light earthy undertone that is characteristic of the Chiroubles terroir. As the wine opens up, a delicate spice and a subtle touch of minerality emerge, adding depth and intrigue to the bouquet.

On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied, with fresh acidity and silky, well-integrated tannins. The red fruit flavors are lively and expressive, with notes of ripe cherry, red currant, and a hint of cranberry. There’s a delightful minerality that runs through the wine, giving it a crisp, refreshing character. The finish is clean and smooth, with lingering notes of red fruit and a touch of spice. La Scandaleuses is a wine that’s both approachable and complex, with a delicious balance of fruit, acidity, and earthiness.

This Beaujolais is perfect for a variety of food pairings. It’s excellent with charcuterie, roasted chicken, or even grilled vegetables. Its vibrant acidity and freshness also make it a great match for lighter dishes like quiche or a simple salad with goat cheese.