Chateau de la Chaize Fleurie la Chapelle des Bois 2022 750ml

This family wine estate was founded 350 years ago by Jean-François de La Chaize d’Aix, whose descendants passed the business on in 2017 to the family of Christophe Gruy. With 450ha (150ha under vine), it’s the largest estate in Beaujolais. La Chapelle des Bois comes from 40-year-old vines on a single 1ha southwest-facing plot grown on sandy soils with granite pebbles. Fruit 100% destemmed, and the wine matured for 12 months in large oak foudres, which were renewed between 2018 and 2020. Andy Howard MW: Quite inky, good concentration and dark-berry/cherry notes. Firm, crisp and bright. Lovely texture and balance, with a sapidity which marks this out as a top-quality wine. Melania Battiston: Seductive and ethereal nose with violets, lavender and ripe strawberries. Soft and silk-like with plenty of freshness and ageing potential. Victoria Daskal: Soft summer fruit, gentle, yet persistent. Pleasing palate of soft satin tannins. Charming, fresh, fragrant florals and cherries. Lovely for lunch.

• Country: France
• Region: Burgundy
• Appellation: Beaujolais
• Sub Appellation: Fleurie
• Size: 750ml
• Color: Red
• Alcohol by Vol: 13.0%

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.