In a culture that’s became known for its insipid, carbonic-macerated Beaujolais Nouveau styles, there is something infinitely more interesting going on in the Southern Burgundian appellation of Beaujolais. Jean-François is doing his part to perpetuate the quality that is making Beaujolais loved around the world once more. The estate has been in the family since 1750 and continues to deliver a traditional Beaujolais the way their forebearers intended. This uber classic producer works their fifteen hectares around the village of Theizé with an eye toward thriving biodiversity, without the use of herbicides. The village of Theizé is known as the “land of the golden stones,” for the yellow stones that are scattered throughout the vineyards and are the source of the picturesque golden architecture around the charming commune. Jean-François strives for moderately low yields, resulting in ample concentration. The hand-harvested fruit is fermented with natural yeasts in climate-controlled vessels at lower temperatures than most of his neighbors, lending incredibly fresh, pure aromatics to his elegant expression of Gamay. The wine is then aged in large neutral barrels with as little sulfur dioxide as possible - a rarity in the region. The finished product is a Gamay that captures precisely what we adore about fine Beaujolais.

The 2013 Cuvée Prestige displays a concentrated ruby red core with light pink and garnet reflections on the rim. The nose is simply bursting with wild black cherries and strawberries that are infused with white pepper, wild herbs, dried goji berry, wet granite and exotic spices. The incredibly soft yet dense palate boasts a beautiful delineation of concentrated flavors, mirroring the nose, which combines to create an absolutely delicious drinking experience that you will want to enjoy throughout the day and into the night. Peaking now, this wine will delight over the next few years and even longer with proper storage. Decant for thirty minutes and serve in large Burgundy stems at 60 degrees for the ideal aromatic balance. One of our favorite recommendations here at SommSelect is the recipe for Zuni Chicken. It requires a couple of days of planning, but it is well worth the effort and will easily create a centerpiece entrée that will impress even the most discerning guests. If you follow the recipe and open a few bottles of this delicious red, you will be guaranteed an incredible evening.