Côte de Brouilly 2018
Stéphane Aviron
Terroir: The appellation of Côte de Brouilly sits on the steep slopes of the extinct volcano Mont Brouilly and is surrounded by the larger appellation of Brouilly. The soils here are volcanic with blue stones, from diorite deposits. The Stéphane Aviron Côte de Brouilly is sourced from two separate vineyards of these slopes. The first makes up about 75% of the blend and sits in the poor soils facing southwest on the hillside. Vines average 60+ years old in this parcel and these grapes account for the wine’s depth and structure. The second parcel faces due south with younger vines (45+ years) and contributes ripe juicy fruit to the final blend.
Vinification: The two sources are vinified and aged separately until ready for the final blending and bottling. Whole bunches are used, as is traditional in the Beaujolais crus, and macerated for seven to eight days before pressing. The wine is aged in a combination of stainless steel (50%) and large, neutral oaks barrels, foudres, that are at least 45 years old.
Additional Information
About the Vintage: 2018 was one of the best vintages Stéphane Aviron has made in the past twenty years and by some considerations a perfect vintage for Beaujolais!
Winter was cold and rainy which provided the vines with a water reserve to last into the growing season. Spring was warm. Summer was dry and warm with no disease present in the vineyards.
Harvest started at the end of August and continued until the beginning to September for some of the later-ripening vineyards.
The wines are high alcohol, but still very good balance between acidity and alcohol, creating harmonious wines. All the conditions for a great wine were met, resulting in a legendary vintage for Beaujolais.
Côte de Brouilly is medium to full-bodied wine, with elegance and finesse. On the nose and palate there are wild strawberry and raspberry notes, with hints of darker berries and a touch of spice. The wine has very good concentration with a good acidity and firm tannins.
Technical Details
- Appellation: Côte de Brouilly
- Winemaker: Stéphane Aviron
- Sustainability: Sustainable Practices
- Soil: Granite, volcanic with blue stone
- Avg Vine Age: 40-60+ years
- Alcohol: 13.0%
- Sizes Available: 750ml
- Pack Size: 12/750ml
- Varietals: 100% Gamay
