Domaine Chignard Fleurie Clos des Moriers

Fleurie, France

Fleurie's most serious and age-worthy expression — old-vine Gamay from the pink granite Clos des Moriers parcel, aged in used oak. Violet, wild strawberry, raspberry, rose petal, and the granitic mineral freshness that gives Fleurie its ethereal quality. More structured and age-worthy than typical Fleurie; develops magnificently over 5-7 years into something resembling light Pinot Noir from Burgundy. The definitive argument that Beaujolais cru is serious wine.

Pairing intelligence

• main: Lyon's most celebrated preparation and its Beaujolais cru — Fleurie's silky texture and floral character bridges the quenelle's delicate richness; crayfish amplify the freshwater character; Nantua's cream is cut by the wine's granite freshness
• starter: The Lyonnais tradition of charcuterie and Beaujolais — Fleurie's violet and wild strawberry character bridges the various pork preparations; cornichons' acidity mirrors the wine's fresh acidity