Georges Descombes Brouilly Vieilles Vignes 2022

Georges Descombes is a leading natural grower in Beaujolais, working his family estate since 1988 with minimal intervention. This Brouilly Vieilles Vignes comes from old Gamay vines planted on granite, the soil that defines the cru villages of Beaujolais. Granite is free-draining and poor, holding heat and keeping yields low, which gives Gamay its bright fruit and fine, granular tannin. Old vines deepen the concentration while keeping the wine fresh. Descombes farms organically and works with minimal added sulphur, letting native yeasts run the fermentation so the wine reflects the vintage and site rather than cellar technique. Ageing for 12 months in used French oak barrels rounds the texture without adding obvious wood flavour, since older barrels give air rather than oak character. The colour is bright ruby. The nose is fragrant, with crunchy cherry, raspberry and red berries over violet and a peppery, earthy edge. The palate is light to medium bodied and juicy, with fresh acidity, fine tannin and a savoury finish. Serve at 13 to 15C, with a light chill in warm weather. It suits roast chicken, charcuterie and grilled pork.