Description
History
Thibault Liger-Belair, the Nuits-Saint-Georges winemaker renowned for his interpretation of some of Burgundy’s finest terroirs, expanded his project into Beaujolais by acquiring vineyards in Moulin-à-Vent in 2008 and establishing Domaine des Pierres Roses. Les Vieilles Vignes is the estate’s most emblematic cuvée and is produced from a collection of vineyard parcels covering approximately 7 hectares, representing a significant proportion of the estate. The vines were planted between 1910 and 1955 around the Moulin-à-Vent hill. The shallow soils consist mainly of white and pink sands derived from decomposed pink granite and quartz, while cool northerly winds help preserve freshness and tension in the grapes.
Grape variety
100% Gamay.
Vinification
The 2020 vintage was harvested by hand on 27 August. Approximately 40% of the grapes were vinified as whole bunches, with fermentation lasting around three weeks in open vats. Extraction was deliberately gentle in order to preserve fruit purity and tannic finesse. The wine was subsequently aged for approximately 15 months in oak, with restrained use of new barrels, around 20%, allowing the Gamay to develop complexity without masking the expression of its granitic terroir.
Alcohol content
13% ABV.
Tasting notes
Deep, bright ruby red. The nose displays impressive aromatic purity, with cherry, blackcurrant, blueberry and other dark fruits complemented by violet, rose and delicate sweet spices. The palate is broad and velvety, with ripe, juicy fruit supported by fine, well-defined tannins. Despite the concentration of the 2020 vintage, the wine retains excellent freshness and a distinctive mineral tension derived from its granitic soils. The finish is long, spicy and persistent, with an overall balance suggesting excellent ageing potential.
Food pairings
Excellent with roast meats, pork tenderloin, veal, duck, rabbit and feathered game. It also pairs beautifully with mushrooms, rich pasta dishes, terrines, charcuterie and medium to mature cheeses. Its combination of fruit, freshness and structure means it can also be served slightly chilled, at around 15-16 °C.
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