Pierre-Marie Chermette, formerly of Domaine du Vissoux, is one of the most reliable names in Beaujolais and was farming sustainably long before it became fashionable. Yields are low and the fruit ripens naturally, so the wines are made without chaptalisation.
Les Griottes takes its name from the grove of wild cherry trees bordering the vineyard at Saint-Vérand, which is fitting given what ends up in the glass. The Gamay vines are thirty to forty years old, planted on the region's dark granite, and the winemaking stays traditional: whole bunches, wild yeasts and a semi-carbonic maceration in concrete, then a short rest in old oak casks.
The result is Beaujolais at its most appealing, crunchy and fresh, packed with morello cherry, raspberry and strawberry with a blueberry note and a distinct cherrystone tang. Serve it lightly chilled alongside charcuterie, roast chicken, pork or a picnic spread.
Vintages may vary. Email us at hello@barrelandbatch.com.au if you would like confirmation.