Domaine de la Madone 2005 Tasting Notes

Fleurie Vieilles Vignes 2003 

Our exclusive Fleurie this year is from 2003, when all France experienced record temperatures - nobody has seen a hotter vintage.  The ban des vendanges - the official date from which picking is allowed - was August 11th; various reports suggest that the last time it was this early was 1757 or maybe 1893.  The Gamay grapes however ripened perfectly and were hand picked in superb condition.  Our vineyard, high up on the steep slopes of the hill beneath the watchful gaze of La Madone, benefited from some slightly cooler air, and this year the extra dash of acidity associated with grapes grown here was particularly welcome.

Our winemaker Jean-Marc Desprès is a firm proponent of la culture raisonnée: following natural methods of viticulture as closely as possible and minimal use of chemical pesticides or herbicides.  This method requires more manual labour to till the soil and to carefully manage the leaf canopy to ensure the grapes get just the right amount of nourishment and protection.  

This year, due to a combination of late frosts and excessive heat, the yield was down by a third.  The wine however is concentrated and deeply coloured with a bouquet more reminiscent of red fruits than its traditional floral aroma.  The flavour simply explodes in your mouth - a combination of succulent fruit, slaty minerality, refreshing acidity and a very long finish.  Enjoy this slightly chilled, either by itself or with charcuterie, grilled meat or summer salads.  Drink now and over the next three years.