Domaine de la Pirolette, which dates back to the 1600’s, is comprised of 100% Gamay vineyards situated on hilltop parcels with very thin topsoil in the small, revered Beaujolais Cru of Saint Amour. Averaging 65 years old, the gnarled vines’ struggle for water and nutrients is reflected in the coarse, rustic nature of this wine. No herbicides or pesticides have been used since 2013 when the current owners took over the property and the received HVE certification in 2019. Winemaking is traditional with fermentation in cement with 50% whole cluster and very gently extraction using the chapeau grillé method, in which the cap is submerged with a grate, infusing the skins with the fermenting juice. The wine is then aged for nine months in stainless steel. Gorgeous aromatics of fresh, wild berries with a subtle floral note, yield to a solidly medium bodied palate with some earthy, iron and granitic minerality and surprisingly firm tannins for a Beaujolais. It’s the epitome and embodiment of tough love but love nonetheless and pairs perfectly with Cornish Game Hen, creamy, pungent Jasper Hill Harbison, or roasted root veggies.