Chignard Julienas Beauvernay 2020 ANDREW GUARD WINE IMPORTS

The Domaine Chignard’s 8 hectares of vines are situated right at the top of the hill bordering Moulin-à-Vent, on pure granitic soil inflected with the manganese found in Moulin-à-Vent. The ‘Moriers’ lieu-dit contains their oldest vines, some of which are over 60-years-old and all of which are free-standing in traditional ‘gobelet’ style.Vinification is divided between stainless steel, cement and large wooden tanks, all using the classic whole bunch method for the maximum extraction of fruit. The subtly differing cuvées are then blended early in the spring and allowed to harmonise over three to four months. This is a tiny estate, the entire operation takes place beneath their house, there are just three small foudres and a row of 6 barrels.Chignard’s Fleuries are unusually concentrated, intensely aromatic and have a depth of fruit and structure seldom found in wines form this village no doubt due to the close proximity to Moulin-à-Vent. Their wines have found a strong following in France’s restaurants where they are praised for their ability to complement the finest food and setting, in fact 70% of all their sales are within France.As ardent defenders of traditional Beaujolais methods, the Chignards take a minimalist approach in both the vineyards and the cellar. The finished wines couldn’t be more reflective of Les Moriers’ splendid location: light and playful, with deep, ripe fruit and finesse. Noted French publication ‘La Revue du Vin de France’ claims that the aromas from their wines evoke memories of the great Chambolle-Musignys from Burgundy.

– Importer Note