Beaujolais-Villages Cuvée des Beaux Jours 2020

Wine Description for Beaujolais-Villages Cuvée des Beaux Jours 2020 by François de Nicolay

Colour & Appearance

Deep, luminous cherry red with violet reflections – a Beaujolais that visually distances itself from typical lightness and promises depth.

Nose

Seductively dark yet wonderfully accessible, this Gamay presents itself with distinction. Violets, pansies and hibiscus form an intense floral foundation, whilst elderberry, blackberry, morello cherry and blackcurrant provide dense fruit. A hint of sloe lends mystical depth, liquorice, mint and a trace of parsley complete the complex aromatic interplay.

Palate

On the palate, the true nature of this Beaujolais reveals itself: crisp, juicy and threaded through with pronounced acidity. The dark fruit recedes in favour of clarity and structure. A perpetual, fascinating interplay between fruit and acidity makes this wine the perfect sipping companion – invigorating, taut, remarkably quaffable.

Finish

In the aftertaste, a noticeable menthol note keeps the dark fruit in check and provides refreshing length and precision.

Terroir & Origin

The thirty-year-old Gamay vines are rooted in sand and granite – classic Beaujolais terroir that guarantees freshness and minerality. The extreme planting density of 10,000 vines per hectare with modest yields of 40 hl/ha ensures concentration and depth.

Grape Variety & Vinification

100% Gamay, vinified as whole bunches over nearly three weeks without added sulphur. The vineyards are in transition to organic cultivation. After fermentation, the wine matures for eight months in tanks – a purist vinification that gives precedence to terroir and fruit.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Perfect with braised rabbit with celery, tomato and olive, rice noodles with porcini and pickled red onions or aubergine gnocchi alla Parmigiana. The acidity structure makes it an ideal companion for braised dishes and hearty vegetarian fare.

Special Features

François de Nicolay proves that Beaujolais-Villages can be far more than uncomplicated bistro wine. This cuvée unites depth, structure and drinkability in impressive fashion – a Gamay with personality and soul.