Le Grappin, Rouge du Grappin, Beaujolais, Villages, 2016

(1.5 litre pouch) Le Grappin's parcel of Gamay located on the slopes of Lancié was ruined by hail in 2016, so this instead comes from several parcels in Lantignié of up to 80 years of age, on pink granitic sand and clay soils. The wine underwent carbonic maceration in concrete vats before completing alcoholic fermentation in old Pinot Noir barrels and aged on the lees for five months. The result has a classic Beaujolais nose of bubblegum and confected red fruits, although there are some more serious savoury and herbal notes there too. The fruit on the palate is quite well defined, with clean and fresh red cherry and sweet spice followed by some creamy vanilla undertones and bouncy acidity. A really vibrant drop.