Jean Foillard Fleurie 2020
Since the 1980’s, Jean Foillard’s name has been etched in stone on the list of the top Beaujolais producers. He treats his Gamay with as much respect and finesse as high end Burgundy, meaning long maceration periods in vats at low temperatures and plenty of ageing in old oak. The fruit here comes from a lieu-dit named Champagne in Fleurie, essentially a 1ha area denoted for it’s specific pink sandstone soils. Whole bunch ferment at low temps for around three weeks and aged in old oak. Results are bright cherries, raspberry burst and a saline backbone that makes for salivating drinking. Every year, only a small amount of it makes its way to us antipodes.