Georges Descombes Régnié Vieilles Vignes 2018

Georges Descombes is one of the leading figures of natural Beaujolais, based in the hamlet of Vermont, northeast of Villié-Morgon. Following the example of Marcel Lapierre, he makes minimal-intervention wines that reflect their origin. This Vieilles Vignes is a Gamay from Régnié, the newest of the ten Beaujolais crus, made from old vines. Régnié sits on light, sandy pink granite soils that drain freely and give an aromatic, red-fruited and finely structured style of Gamay. Farming is organic and the wine is made naturally, with wild-yeast fermentation and few additions, so it carries the stamp of the site and the vintage. It ages twelve months in used French oak, which softens the texture while keeping the fruit fresh. The colour is bright, translucent ruby. The nose shows small red fruits such as raspberry and redcurrant, floral notes, a citrus lift and a hint of spice. The palate is light to medium bodied and smooth, with juicy red fruit, supple tannins, fresh acidity and a clean, savoury finish. Serve at 14 to 15 degrees, lightly chilled, in a standard glass. It suits roast poultry, pork and mushroom dishes.