Fleurie "La Vigne des Fous" 2020 Marc Delienne | Beaujolais

Marc Delienne 's Fleurie La Vigne des Fous is born at the top of the appellation's steepest slopes, in a place called La Madone. Accessible only by pickaxe or winch, this parcel of old Gamay vines requires as much passion as rigor to cultivate. Domaine Marc Delienne took over the vines here in 2015, which range in age from forty to eighty years and are grown organically and then biodynamically on sandy loam soils derived from granite. The grapes are harvested strictly by hand on the steep slopes, with rigorous sorting in the cellar. Winemaking involves carbonic maceration of whole bunches in temperature-controlled concrete vats with indigenous yeasts only, followed by a short 15-day vatting period and delicate pressing. Ageing lasts 11 months in Stockinger tuns, to give this red wine depth and body, without forcing its woody character.

Philippe Mischler, sommelier at Mundovin : Marc Delienne 's Fleurie La Vigne des Fous reveals both the singularity of the terroir and the elegant, unique signature of this winemaker. The plot demands constant attention and precise work, and the wine faithfully reflects this requirement in its structure and balance. The strength of this cuvée lies in its brilliant combination of verticality and finesse, making it undoubtedly one of Marc Delienne's finest cuvées.

On the nose, the first impression is powerful and serious, structured by noble fruit of controlled ripeness. An aromatic palette of finesse emerges, where red berries evolve towards an infinitely elegant floral nuance of fresh violets and peonies.

On the palate, the attack is invigoratingly fresh. The fruit is juicy and vibrant, structured by silky tannins of confounding finesse. The finish achieves a perfect balance between the slightly peppery mineral elegance of Fleurie's granite soil, and a dazzling floral expressiveness.