AOC Chiroubles wines awarded at the Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge

A.O.C./A.O.P.

50 kilometres north of Lyon, the Chiroubles appellation is situated west of Fleurie and north of Morgon. Planted on terraces creating a bowl formation, this growth boasts the highest elevation in Beaujolais (between 250 to 400 m). The hillsides planted to vines act as a natural barrier. Consequently, the temperature range is greater than in the other growths. The soils are meagre, permeable and homogeneous, comprising shallow granite sand.

Grape varieties: Vins rouges : gamay

The wines of this appellation

Chiroubles are ethereal, brilliant, light, soft wines which have a pleasant bouquet, are lively and easy drinking. They are also elegant, delicate, well-balanced with very discrete tannins, which earns them a reputation as ‘feminine’ wines. They could be described as archetypal Beaujolais with their light vermilion hue, fragrances of violet, peony, lily-of-the-valley, iris, raspberry and woodland fruits. They are also some of the quickest-maturing wines in Beaujolais and should be drunk young. An expression often used to describe them is that they ‘caress you inside’. Serve with rabbit terrine in aspic, grilled meats, cooked cold pork meats, grilled or chitterlings sausages, poultry, white meats, lamb shoulder, Charolais cheeses…