2024 Domaine de Colonat Chiroubles Les Rochaux

Chiroubles is the highest of the Beaujolais crus, and its altitude shows in the wines: high-toned, fragrant and distinctly lighter on the palate than most of its neighbours. The Rochaux terroir sits on a very steep, south-facing hillside of granitic sandy soils, where vines between 40 and 70 years old produce small, concentrated fruit.

Fully destemmed, 10 days of gentle maceration, eight months in concrete tanks. Complete destemming keeps things clean and precise, letting the aromatics speak without distraction.

Fresh raspberry and cherry on the palate, with violet florals and a fine mineral thread from the granite beneath. The texture is light and airy, the acidity vibrant and refreshing, with a clean, lifted finish. It's gorgeous drinking.

The steep hillside and old vines give it considerably more depth than Chiroubles typically delivers, with definite mid-term cellaring potential to be had. A natural match for a whole host of cuisines, and a reminder that Gamay can be both delicate and genuinely compelling at the same time.

"There are always consumers with preconceived notions about Beaujolais wines, but today I take it as a game to convince them. I know our wines are appreciated, and I have confidence in their quality"
- Thomas Collogne (Domaine de Colonat owner/winemaker)