Jean-Claude Lapalu is a 3rd generation winemaker who founded his domaine only recently in 1996. However, he has made huge strides and now makes some of the finest Brouilly in the region and is the first grower from Beaujolais to achieve 94 Parker points. His Gamay vines are situated at Saint-Etienne-la-Varenne in the Brouilly region of Beaujolais and grow on granite soil. There are 12 hectares of old vines (60-80 years) in total - 7 in Beaujolais, 4 in Brouilly and 1 in the Cote-de-Brouilly, all grown strictly according to organic priciples; indeed Jean-Claude is hoping to convert to biodynamic within 3 years. This particular Gamay is from vines Claude's grandfather reports were old when he began farming in 1940. Rich and invigorating, look out for manifestations of black fruits and green herbs. Delicious!
A dark ruby in colour. Aromas of black and blue fruits with hints of dark chocolate and candied orange peel. Intense and bitter-sweet in the mouth with a soothing warmth, the finish is lingering and slightly spicy. Try with chorizo encrusted cod, roast pork belly or blanquette de veau.