Alcohol: 13%
Grape(s): 100% Gamay
Location: Brouilly, Beaujolais, France
Tasting Notes: Beautiful ruby red in color, this expressive Cru Beaujolais offers inviting aromas of ripe red cherries, wild raspberries, and juicy strawberries, complemented by delicate floral notes, earthy undertones, and hints of peppery spice. On the palate, it is vibrant and beautifully textured, revealing layers of fresh red berries, dark cherries, and subtle savory complexity. Silky tannins and refreshing acidity provide excellent balance, while an underlying granitic minerality adds depth and elegance. The finish is long, lively, and pleasantly spicy, showcasing the purity, freshness, and distinctive character of exceptional Brouilly.
Notes: Crafted exclusively from Gamay grown in the Saburin lieu-dit, one of the distinctive vineyard sites within the Brouilly appellation. Nicolas Chemarin's steeply sloping parcel sits approximately 350 meters above sea level, facing south and southeast, where the vines are rooted in pink granite soils. The densely planted vines are traditionally trained in the gobelet style, allowing them to thrive on the rugged hillside. Whole grape clusters undergo fermentation with indigenous yeasts and approximately 15 days of maceration, without added sulfur during fermentation. The wine is then matured on its fine lees until spring, developing additional texture and complexity. A minimal amount of sulfur is added before bottling, and the wine is bottled unfiltered to preserve its natural expression. The result is an authentic, terroir-driven Brouilly that combines generous fruit, elegant structure, and remarkable freshness.
Food Pairing: An excellent companion to roasted chicken, grilled pork tenderloin, duck breast, and herb-roasted turkey. Its vibrant fruit and delicate tannins also pair beautifully with charcuterie, pâté, French country sausages, mushroom risotto, and traditional Lyonnaise cuisine. For cheese lovers, enjoy with Brie, Camembert, Comté, Gruyère, or a creamy goat cheese. Particularly delicious with a classic French bistro meal, this versatile Gamay can be served slightly chilled to enhance its freshness and lively fruit character.
Winery Story: Nicolas Chemarin is a fourth-generation winegrower based in the tiny hillside village of Marchampt, tucked into the rugged western reaches of Beaujolais. Affectionately known as "P'tit Grobis," a local nickname connected to the village's history, Nicolas established himself as an independent winemaker in 2006 and later took over his family's vineyards. His small estate encompasses steep, challenging vineyard parcels in Beaujolais-Villages and celebrated crus including Brouilly, Régnié, and Morgon. A passionate advocate for traditional, low-intervention winemaking, Nicolas works his vineyards with great respect for the environment, favoring organic principles, indigenous yeasts, whole-cluster fermentation, and minimal additions in the cellar. His wines are produced with a deep commitment to expressing the individuality of each vineyard and its underlying geology. The Brouilly "Saburin" beautifully embodies his philosophy, capturing the distinctive pink granite terroir, vibrant Gamay fruit, and artisanal character that make small-production Beaujolais so compelling.
