2023 CHENAS 'LES JOURNETS'

TRY ME IF YOU LOVE: Pinot Noir

ABV: 14.5%

GRAPES: 100% Gamay

TASTING NOTES: Perfumed and elegant, showing bright wild strawberry and ripe berry fruits anchored by generous, fine-grained tannins, fresh acidity, and distinct mineral notes.

PAIRS WITH: Pairs exceptionally well with roast chicken, duck with plum sauce, chicken tagine with olives, pork sausages, meat stews, and mature cheeses.

SERVE ME: Slightly chilled, pop in the fridge for half an hour.

Raphael Saint-Cyr is the fourth generation vigneron at the Domaine Saint-Cyr, which was created by his great-grandfather, Pierre Saint-Cyr. The estate is located in Anse, found at the southern edge of the Beaujolais. When Raphael took over the winemaking in 2008, he let go of a large portion of Beaujolais vines around the winery and acquired vines further north in the crus of Morgon, Regnié, Chénas, and Moulin-à-Vent. Having seen his grandfather and uncle get sick from the chemicals used to treat their vines, Raphael was immediately convinced to convert the entire 23 hectare domaine to certified organic viticulture, making Domaine Saint Cyr one of the largest organic domaines in the Beaujolais.

I made a bistro style tarragon & butter roast chicken with fries, green beans and a pan juice jus the other week to go with this wine and I think it’s up there with the best meals I’ve ever drank / eaten...