2011 Domaine Chignard, Fleurie “Les Moriers” Cru Beaujolais, France.
Just plain delightful and entertainingly pretty in detail this Gamay flows with classic fruit and perfumed floral character with touches of mineral and spice. The new vintage of Chignard reveals more balance and heightened flavors with good acidity and just the right amount of earthiness adding life and interest in this fine example of Fleurie. While the 2009 marveled with density and ripeness, the 2011 is refreshingly delicate and pure, but with good complexity and a lengthy finish. The nose comes to live with incense, dried roses and violets leading to a palate of cherry, blackberry and plum fruits while a touch of walnut shells, umami and truffle add to the mix along with a bit of citrus rind and mineral. There is a hint of pepper spice that plays well with the fruit and the body is silky and almost medium weight, though it feels lighter than it is at this stage. This refined Cru Beaujolais should develop nicely and drink well for 3 to 5 years. Honestly, I enjoyed this Chignard more than any vintage in my memory, including the 2009, another winner from Kermit Lynch Imports, Gamay fans need to grab a few of these.
($28 Est.) 92 Points, grapelive

 

Avail at www.sfwtc.com ($24.95)

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