Le Juice Fleurie Gamay 2022

Le Juice Fleurie Gamay 2022 is a distinguished red wine from the Beaujolais region of France, produced through a collaboration between Tom Sheer and James Audas of Das Juice & Lo-Fi Wines, and local Beaujolais winemaker Guillaume Chanudet. This partnership focuses on crafting expressive, minimal-intervention wines that showcase the unique terroir of Fleurie.

The 2022 vintage is made from 100% Gamay grapes sourced from a single vineyard called 'La Cabane,' situated on the slopes of La Madonne in the elevated areas of Fleurie. The 35-year-old bush vines are planted in coarse sandy soils with specks of bright pink granite, contributing to the wine's distinctive character. The grapes underwent carbonic maceration for nine days as whole bunches in concrete tanks, followed by six months of aging in tank. Bottled young with a small addition of sulfur, the wine is juicy and bright with a fleshy mid-palate that evolves beautifully over a few days.

Appearance: Bright ruby-red with vivid purple hues, showcasing its youthful vibrancy. The wine’s clarity and luminosity suggest freshness, while the slight translucence hints at the delicate nature of Gamay.

Aroma: Highly aromatic and expressive, offering an enticing bouquet of fresh red berries, including raspberries, wild strawberries, and juicy cherries. Floral hints of violets and peonies intertwine with subtle spice notes of white pepper and cinnamon, while a delicate mineral undertone adds finesse.

Taste: Lush and juicy, bursting with vibrant red fruit flavours such as cranberry, pomegranate, and red currant. The mid-palate is silky and rounded, with a refreshing acidity that gives the wine an energetic lift. A touch of earthiness and fine-grained tannins provide structure, while subtle notes of crushed herbs and graphite add depth.

Finish: Smooth, fresh, and lingering, with bright fruit and mineral-driven acidity persisting on the palate. The fine, chalky tannins add a subtle grip, while the wine’s floral and spicy notes continue to evolve, making it highly drinkable and expressive.

Food Pairing: This Gamay pairs beautifully with charcuterie boards, particularly with cured meats like prosciutto and saucisson sec, where its acidity cuts through the richness. It also complements roasted poultry, such as duck or herb-crusted chicken, enhancing the savoury elements of the dish. Soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert pair well, as their creamy texture balances the wine’s bright fruit and crisp acidity. Best served slightly chilled to highlight its freshness and lively character.