From: Chenas, Beaujolais, France
Varietal: Gamay
Taste: The glass presents a ruby-red hue with purple-blue tints. The nose offers a bouquet of red fruits, such as raspberry and cherry, interwoven with floral notes of peony, violet, and subtle spicy undertones. The wine is full and fleshy on the palate, delivering a blend of fruit and spice flavors. Refined tannins support its well-structured body, leading to a lingering finish.
Pairing: For a classic French pairing, consider a roast duck breast with a cherry glaze, where the wine’s bright acidity cuts through the richness while complementing the fruit-forward sauce. With its creamy texture and earthy flavors, a wild mushroom risotto mirrors the wine's subtle forest floor notes. For something lighter, a salade Lyonnaise—featuring frisée, poached egg, and bacon lardons—contrasts the wine's silky tannins and floral aromas. Braised pork shoulder with juniper and herbs is another standout option, as the wine's structure and spice can stand up to the dish's hearty, aromatic profile. For a vegetarian option, ratatouille's medley of tomatoes, eggplant, and peppers harmonizes beautifully with the wine's ripe red fruit and herbal undertones. Finally, serve a mild yet creamy Saint-Marcellin for a cheese pairing, whose nutty flavors and soft texture enhance the wine’s elegance without overwhelming it.
Salade Lyonnaise
By Mark Bittman
About: Domaine de Chênepierre, under the stewardship of Christophe Lapierre, is a family-owned winery in Chénas, one of the ten crus of the Beaujolais region in France. The estate spans approximately 12 hectares, with vineyards distributed across the appellations of Chénas, Moulin-à-Vent, and Beaujolais-Villages. The Lapierre family's viticultural heritage is deeply rooted in this area, with a tradition of winemaking passed down through generations. In 2008, Christophe Lapierre assumed control of the family farm, bringing with him a commitment to preserving traditional practices and embracing sustainable viticulture.
