Brouilly: The largest Beaujolais cru, at the foot of Mont Brouilly. Expect approachable, fruity red wines with red berry and plum notes, often with a smooth, easy-drinking character. Diverse soils contribute to its versatility.
Côte de Brouilly: Situated entirely on Mont Brouilly’s slopes, within Brouilly. This cru yields more concentrated and elegant Gamay, showcasing floral aromas, red and black fruit, and a distinct mineral edge from its volcanic soil. Often more structured and age-worthy.
Chiroubles: The highest altitude Beaujolais cru, known for producing the lightest and most delicate wines. Expect fresh, aromatic reds with prominent floral notes and vibrant red fruit. Silky tannins make them best enjoyed young for their charming character.
Domaine de la Grosse Pierre, nestled within the elevated vineyards of Chiroubles in Beaujolais, France, is a testament to the region’s rich winemaking heritage. Under the stewardship of the Passot family, and particularly the dynamic Pauline Passot, the estate has garnered recognition for its commitment to producing elegant, terroir-driven wines. Situated on some of the highest slopes in Beaujolais, the vineyards benefit from unique climatic conditions and soil compositions, contributing to the distinct character of their Gamay wines. Emphasising a minimal intervention approach, the winemaking process involves wild yeast fermentation, semi-carbonic maceration, and gentle extraction, with ageing primarily in concrete tanks. With a growing focus on organic viticulture, Domaine de la Grosse Pierre crafts wines that express purity, finesse, and vibrant fruit, showcasing the unique nuances of Chiroubles, Fleurie, and Morgon crus.
Château Thivin, situated on the slopes of Mont Brouilly in Beaujolais, France, is a testament to generations of winemaking tradition. As the oldest estate on the mountain, its history stretches back to the 15th century, with the Geoffray family shaping its legacy since 1877. The estate’s unique terroir, defined by blue volcanic rock and pink granite soils, combined with the steep slopes and varied exposures, imparts a distinctive character to their wines. Their commitment to traditional winemaking, including whole-bunch fermentation and ageing in large oak foudres, further enhances the quality of their offerings. With a growing dedication to organic viticulture, Château Thivin has solidified its reputation as a benchmark domaine, producing exceptional wines that authentically reflect the unique terroir of Côte de Brouilly.
