Domaine de la Madone 2007 Tasting Notes

Fleurie Vieilles Vignes 2005 

2005 was an outstanding year for producing wine in many areas of France.  The summer was a perfect balance of hot sunny weather and lower than average rainfall, leading to a harvest period in early October when the grapes were supremely ripe.  Our vineyard – high on the slopes above the village – benefited from a long ripening period, resulting in a wine with superb, ripe tannins and good balancing acidity.  Yields were about 15% lower than average and this further concentrated the eventual wine.  Jean-Marc describes this vintage as being an excellent millésime, being well balanced and full of body.

The wine is still deep in colour, showing a youthful purple at present.  The bouquet is typical Gamay, with raspberries and blackberries and a hint of spice, but a little less floral than normal.  On the palate it is rich and fruity with a full structure and a clean fresh finish.  The local pink granite soils create wines with beautiful acidity and the structure to mature well – and the 2005 vintage has the depth and finesse to develop further – it is a perfect example of Cru Beaujolais.

Fleurie is a tremendously versatile wine as it can be drunk on its own, but is at its best with barbecues, grilled meat and casseroles – it also works extremely well with fish and hard cheeses or pasta.  Like all the best Cru wines it will mature well over the next six or seven years, during which time it will develop complex secondary flavours and aromas.