Côte de Brouilly 2016
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
Finesse, elegance and roundness are the characteristics of this wine. This wine shows loads of rich red and dark berry fruit, spice notes, and very good concentration. It has a soft texture with a touch of spice.
Technical Details
- Appellation: Côte de Brouilly
- Winemaker: Stéphane Aviron
- Sustainability: Biodynamic Practices
- Soil: Sand, clay, quartz pebbles
- Avg Vine Age: 40-60+ years
- Alcohol: 13.5%
- Sizes Available: 750ml
- Pack Size: 12/750ml
- Varietals: 100% Gamay
Recent Press
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Score: 91 Points
Vinous Author: Josh Raynolds
Date: Thursday, October 10, 2019"Brilliant violet. Fresh and energetic in style, showing very good clarity and mineral lift to the raspberry, cherry, lavender and spicecake aromas. Juicy red/blue fruit and floral pastille flavors are sharpened by a spicy suggestion of white pepper. Smoothly plays depth off finesse and finishes impressively long and smooth, with a whisper of fine-grained tannins and lingering florality." -
Score: 89 Points
The Wine Advocate Author: William Kelley
Date: Saturday, September 22, 2018"The 2016 Côte de Brouilly Vieilles Vignes offers up notes of ripe cherries, grilled meat and dark chocolate, followed by a medium to full-bodied, bright palate that's attractively crunchy but a little angular."
