Georges Descombes Morgon Vieilles Vignes 2020

Georges Descombes is one of the respected names of natural Beaujolais, working from the hamlet of Vermont, northeast of Villié-Morgon. He took over the family estate in 1988 and followed the lead of Marcel Lapierre and other producers committed to minimal-intervention wines. This Vieilles Vignes is a Gamay from the cru of Morgon, made from old vines. Morgon is one of the sturdiest Beaujolais crus, with pink granite and schist soils, including the iron-rich blue stone of the Côte du Py, which give the wine depth and a firm mineral core. Farming is organic and winemaking natural, with wild-yeast fermentation and minimal additions, so the wine reflects the site and the year. It ages twelve months in used French oak, which rounds the texture while keeping the fruit clear. The colour is bright ruby. The nose shows red cherry, wild strawberry and redcurrant, with floral notes and a savoury, earthy undertone. The palate is medium bodied and fresh, with juicy red fruit, fine tannins, bright acidity and a peppery, mineral finish. Serve at 14 to 15 degrees, lightly chilled, in a standard glass. It suits roast poultry, pork and charcuterie.