2024 Domaine de Chenepierre Moulin-à-Vent "Vignes de 1913", Beaujolais, France

ABOUT THE WINE

Domaine de Chenepierre’s 2024 “Vignes de 1913” is a distinctive expression of Moulin-à-Vent, one of Beaujolais’ ten celebrated crus and an appellation renowned for producing some of the region’s most structured and age-worthy Gamay wines. Named for vines originally planted in 1913, this bottling highlights the remarkable concentration and complexity that can emerge from exceptionally old vineyards, where naturally low yields encourage depth of flavor and a strong sense of place.

The wine originates from the granitic hillsides of Moulin-à-Vent, where weathered pink granite soils, often enriched with manganese, provide ideal conditions for Gamay. These well-drained, mineral-rich soils encourage deep root development and contribute to the appellation’s characteristic combination of floral aromatics, firm structure, and savory complexity. The 2024 growing season was relatively cool and challenging across Beaujolais, with frequent rainfall requiring meticulous vineyard work and careful harvest selection to preserve fruit quality and freshness.

Produced from 100% Gamay, the wine emphasizes the purity and concentration of its historic vines. Traditional Beaujolais vinification techniques, potentially incorporating whole-cluster fermentation and gentle extraction, help preserve the grape’s vibrant fruit and floral character while developing the structure associated with Moulin-à-Vent. Specific fermentation and élevage details for this bottling are not confirmed.

In the glass, the wine offers layers of black cherry, crushed raspberry, violet, and subtle baking spice, complemented by earthy undertones and a distinctive granitic minerality. Its combination of fresh acidity, refined tannins, and concentrated fruit makes it a natural partner for roasted duck, herb-crusted pork, mushroom risotto, coq au vin, and aged Comté. Serve slightly cool at approximately 55–60°F (13–16°C) to highlight its aromatic complexity and elegant structure.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER

Domaine de Chenepierre is a small Beaujolais producer associated with the prestigious Moulin-à-Vent appellation, an area celebrated for its historic vineyards and distinctive expressions of Gamay. Situated at the northern end of Beaujolais, near the villages of Romanèche-Thorins and Chénas, Moulin-à-Vent has long been regarded as one of the region’s most age-worthy crus, producing wines that combine the aromatic charm of Gamay with a structure and complexity often compared to fine Burgundy.

The domaine’s “Vignes de 1913” bottling reflects a commitment to preserving the heritage of exceptionally old vines, which represent an increasingly rare and valuable part of Beaujolais’ viticultural landscape. These historic plantings, traditionally cultivated as low-trained bush vines, require attentive vineyard management and typically produce modest yields of concentrated fruit. Their preservation helps maintain the genetic diversity and agricultural traditions that define the region.

The broader winemaking philosophy associated with old-vine Moulin-à-Vent emphasizes careful vineyard stewardship, respect for the natural character of Gamay, and restrained cellar techniques that allow the terroir to remain central. The appellation’s granitic soils, continental influences, and long tradition of artisanal viticulture provide the foundation for wines of remarkable elegance, depth, and longevity.

While detailed historical information and specific farming certifications for Domaine de Chenepierre are not widely documented, “Vignes de 1913” stands as a compelling example of the importance of old-vine preservation in Beaujolais. Its combination of historic vineyard heritage, expressive fruit, and structured minerality celebrates Moulin-à-Vent’s reputation as one of France’s most distinctive and enduring red wine appellations.