It is the archetype of a granitic cru with over 90% of its soils originating from pink granite. The Fleurie massif consists of large-crystal granite.
At the foot of the Chapelle de la Madone, in the high-sloping areas, a soil skeleton peeks through the weathered parent rocks, in which the vines have to cling, inserting their roots into the slightest crack.
Beyond the village, to the east, the soils enriched by rain alluvium from above are deeper because they contain more clay.
HISTORY :
The Fleurie appellation, owes its name to a Roman legionary. The village itself is overlooked by a Chapel to the Madonna and the vines cover 785 hectares. Fleurie is often considered to be the most feminine of the Beaujolais Crus because it is a delicate and refined wine.
VINIFICATION :
Manual harvest of Gamay Noir with white juice.
Vatting by gravity, in concrete tanks. Maceration in whole grapes for about ten days, including pumping over and delestage, before pressing, to extract the maximum structure and color. The wine is then aged on fine lees in vats.
WINE :
Colour: Ruby red with purple reflections.
Nose: Complex aromas with a floral dominance (violet and reseda).
Palate: Fat wine with silky tannins. Nice length in the mouth.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS :
Fleurie is best appreciated when young, but it may be laid down for 3 to 8 years. It is the perfect accompaniment to white and light red meats, leg of lamb, and Fleurie’s traditional chitterling sausage. Serve at between 15 to 16°C.
