George Descombes Brouilly Vieilles Vignes 2022 750ml

100% Gamay. About 3.5 of Georges Descombes’ 15 hectares of vines are in the Brouilly cru; he also purchases a bit of Brouilly fruit. There are two Brouilly bottlings: one from the younger vines (ranging from 5 up to almost 50 years old) and this one from the oldest vines (from 50 to 100 years old). ll are planted on hilly sites of decomposed granite soils. The farming is organic, though not certified, and the harvest is manual. The vinification is traditional: whole-bunch, semi-carbonic maceration in large vats (cement, fiberglass, stainless steel) with native yeasts and no sulfur. The vieilles vignes wine is aged in used Burgundy barriques for a year or more, making Descombes’ release generally quite a bit later than those of his fellow vignerons. It is bottled with a very small amount of sulfur and without fining or filtration. Note that the label does NOT indicate the old-vines factor–it is distinguished from the regular Brouilly by its stark white background, conservative black script and red wax cap.

• Country: France
• Region: Burgundy
• Appellation: Beaujolais
• Sub Appellation: Brouilly
• Size: 750ml
• Color: Red

Varietal

Gamay

Gamay, a red grape varietal primarily associated with Beaujolais in France, is celebrated for its vibrant and approachable character. What makes Gamay unique is its immediate charm and versatility, offering wines that are light-bodied yet bursting with flavor. Known for its low tannins and high acidity, Gamay wines are exceptionally food-friendly and often enjoyed slightly chilled.

The grape expresses red fruit flavors such as cherry, raspberry, and sometimes a subtle hint of banana. Beaujolais Nouveau, a young and fruity style of wine released just weeks after harvest, exemplifies Gamay’s exuberant nature. Beaujolais Crus, like Morgon and Fleurie, showcase the grape’s ability to produce wines with depth and complexity.

Gamay’s allure lies in its quaffable and joyous character, making it a favorite for those seeking easy-drinking reds. The varietal’s adaptability to various winemaking styles and its delightful expression of fruit-forward characteristics contribute to its popularity, offering wine enthusiasts an accessible and delightful entry into the world of red wines.