'La Cuvée du Chat' Marcel Lapierre 2021

Marcel Lapierre's "Cuvée du Chat" is a red wine from Beaujolais, in Burgundy, made from Gamay grapes in collaboration with Jean-Claude Chanudet. Vinified using the traditional carbonic maceration method typical of Beaujolais production, this nectar is cheerful and convivial, filling the glass with freshness and authenticity. An explosive mix of red fruits and flowers, framed by earthy and spicy hints, is the prelude to a simple, straightforward, and drinkable tasting experience characterized by great agility and dynamism.

The Beaujolais by Marcel Lapierre and Jean-Claude Chanudet is produced from ancient 80-year-old Gamay vines. These vines are grown near Mont Brouilly, in the Rhône Valley, on a small plot of just over one hectare with soils rich in granite. The cultivation follows the principles of organic agriculture, using only natural substances in the vineyard to minimize the use of chemical agents. The grapes are harvested manually. Even during vinification, human intervention is limited; after an initial carbonic maceration, alcoholic fermentation occurs spontaneously with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel tanks. The ageing process involves a rest period of several months in used oak barrels, providing softness and amplifying the aromatic range. The bottling is done without the addition of sulfur.

Marcel Lapierre's "Cuvée du Chat" presents itself in the glass with a delicate ruby colour, transparent and clear. The olfactory bouquet is characterized by various perceptions, ranging from small red and wild berries notes to canine rose and more earthy scents of damp soil and pepper, painting a very territorial and fragrant picture. On the palate, it is decidedly drinkable, delightful, simple, and satisfying; its low alcohol content and freshness make it highly gastronomic.