Domaine de Roche Noire 'Aux Terres de Guinchay' Saint-Amour 2023

The vibe: The smallest of the ten Crus of Beaujolais, Saint-Amour produces some of the most complex Gamays in the region, leaning into dark fruit, minerality and deep notes of violet. Maybe it’s the love in the air, but we’re really feeling this particular bottle. It has all of the notes above, plus some hints of cherry, raspberry and chocolate. Gamays from Saint-Amour are often seen as the perfect Valentine’s Day wine, and we’ll agree with that. While lighter Beaujolais might be better suited to late summer/early fall and early harvest releases, this expression has enough structure and dynamicism to warm you (and a buddy) even on the coldest night. 

The winemaker: Domaine de la Roche is a project born in December 2019 thanks to the vision of two friends: Mathieu, who represents the fifth generation of winemakers who have always tended the vineyards that now belong to the domaine, and Charles, a dear friend they met in Germany. Mathieu and Charles are part of the new generation of Beaujolais winemakers and produce lively, lively, drinkable wines. They cultivate 7.5 hectares of vines mainly in the Lantignié area, where the vines they work with are between 30 and 100 years old! They also cultivate 0.5 hectares of Régnié Cru. All their sites are organically farmed and are in the process of obtaining certification. 

The geeky details: 100% Gamay Noir from Saint-Amour at an elevation of 335m, carbonic maceration, aging in stainless steel.

Serve: Cellar temp or a light chill.

Food pairing: Gamay is a perfect pairing for poultry or seafood-based dishes. This particular bottle has a touch more structure, making it the perfect candidate for something heartier like a veggie ratatouille, braised beef, or a beef ragu.

Album pairing: Marcos Valle - Nova Bossa Nova