A Wonderful Beaujolais Wine

The 2024 Marcel Lapierre Le Beaujolais is from the Beaujolais region, obviously. The winery was founded by Marcel Lapierre in the early 1970s, and functioned under his unwavering hand until his death after the 2010 vintage. Now, his vision of natural wine, old vines, and minimal intervention is overseen by his son Mathieu and daughter Camille. The wine is imported to the U.S. by Kermit Lynch, whose taste is impeccable. 

The Gamay grapes were pressed and aged over nine months in large oaken vats. Some of the wood has been in use for more than a decade. Alcohol reaches 12.5% abv and it sells for around $30.

This wine looks medium-dark ruby in the glass. The nose is electric. A whiff of smoke gives way to black cherry and currant aromas, but the smoke lingers and reappears on each swirl. The palate is elegant and smooth, with red fruit flavors draped in a savory shawl. The tannins are a bit tame, but the acidity is refreshing. Pair it with a mild, soft cheese, or a Nicoise salad. 

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