Retail Savings

$11.99 $20.00 40%

2010 Charmet Beaujolais 'Masfraise'product-timed-pdf - Beaujolais *The Un-Nouveau Charmer

Why We're Drinking It

As our Panel succinctly put it: “ahhh, Beaujolais!” The incomparable red in a class on its own (what we like to call "Beaujolais Ancienne"), this is a “must try” red from the called "a fantastic follow-up to the exceptional 2009." 100% hand-picked Gamay from the granite-laden appellation (once part of Burgundy), it's an offering brought direct to Members seeking an uncomplicated (yet complex), youthful (yet mature) red to explore.

Beaujolais creates some confusion among -drinkers today due to the concept of , released on the third Thursday of November. The Nouveau, bottled immediately after and fermentation, results in beloved by the masses, albeit occasionally considered almost too simple. Beaujolais (un-Nouveau) is an entirely different wine. Made in a more orthodox manner, the wine ages in barrel or tank for 8-12 months before its release. In both cases, however, the fruit hails from a region that, in the best years, yields more wine than all its Burgundian neighbors combined. Always hand-harvested, the granite-topped land in the south of Burgundy (though no longer a part of the region) produces fruit made for delayed gratification.

Within this terroir, the Vignoble Charmet has grown their fruit and made pure terroir expressions since their first winemaker began in 1650. Their 2010 Cuvée “Masfraise” is testament to why LA Times raves of 2010 Beaujolais' "clarity of expression." A “spectacular” rendition of the varietal, this 100% Gamay (perfect for those looking for something beyond Pinot) is super-drinkable, fruity and light, served best a few degrees colder than other reds. Lovely with aged Gouda or red curry, it’s wholly unlike any other red in the cellar. Set apart by its one-of-a-kind terroir and light Gamay profile, it's worthy of a venture; as one member of our Panel says, “be adventurous, try a bottle and see for yourself; your palate will thank you.”

Insider Tip: Check out LA Times' super summary of Beaujolais vs. Nouveau - and read why 2010 could rival the "almost perfect" 2009 vintage for the varietal.

Tasting Notes

VARIETAL Elegant wine with aromas of red fruits. Every year the fans up with pleasure. Gamay Noir Feminine and seductive wine, well balanced, it will be drinking before, during APPELLATION and after the meal. Beaujolais ALCOHOL 13.00 SIZE 750ml BLEND Gamay Noir

The Story to Know

The first winemaker Charmet came to settle on the slope of the Ronze in the year 1650 . Because of its long descent, each generation has tapped into this atavism anchored deep within their being, the taste of the vine and wine, the pursuit of perfection in the development of each vintage.

In the Beaujolais production that covers a range of amazing qualities, the wine of the vineyard Charmet has secured a special place with its finesse, elegance and long finish, especially if its fruity aromas and subtle. The qualitative aspect of our wines, in addition to the geology and age of the vines, farming methods also results from our vineyard. All our reds are conducted with the size Charmet (size developed by Pierre Charmet). This size, very qualitative, now recognized by the INAO for Beaujolais Crus, mastery yields and yields of high quality grapes. Therefore, chaptalisation is very limited or nonexistent. In the qualitative chain, after the height of winter, disbudding manual consists of a selection of fruit buds for limiting yields and good aeration of the vines. Trellising vine is associated with a struggle for a rational optimization of interventions. The harvest is 100% manual: respect for the vines and harvest quality. Beaujolais fermentation varies from 6 to 10 days with strict control of temperatures.

Perfect Pairings

Red curry, sweet potatoes, aged Gouda.

Ratings

91 Insider Points

Reviews

Ahh! The joys of good Gamay! People forget that Beaujolais is actually considered to be part of Burgundy; another misconception is that all Beaujolais is Nouveau. This is not Nouveau: this is real Beaujolais, and the 2010's are delicious! Totally pure, unadulterated, gorgeous blackberry fruit flavors, bright acidity and some tasty minerality make this one of the nicest values in French wines around. The wine is spicy and totally fresh, a delightful drink. Be adventurous, try a bottle and see for yourself. Beaujolais is a wonderful region and the wines are very friendly and easy to enjoy. -PM

Bright ruby color hints at the youthful freshness of this wine. Subtle raspberry, red cherry and grapey aromatics are complimented by bright acidity, soft tannins and hints of savory herbs & spice. A great wine to pair with holiday dinners or an afternoon snack of charcuterie and cheese. -GB