In 1982, Christine and Joël Ménard took over Joël’s family's vineyards, converted to organic in 1996 and biodynamic in 2007. They make wine on their own terms, declassifying everything as Vin de France so they have total freedom to do what they want, unencumbered by the restrictions of the Appellation Contrôlée system. Copines is their 100% natural blend of 80% Gamay and 20% Grolleau from 50+ year old vines grown on schist soils, hand-picked, macerated in whole clusters for 3 weeks in resin-lined concrete tanks, pressed, blended, and aged in concrete for around 6 months. The result is a funky, unique light-bodied red with bright red berries, vibrant acidity, a moderate dose of kombucha and barnyard notes followed by a flinty element on the dry, low tannin finish. Pairs perfectly with duck pâté or terrine, soft, stinky cheese or roasted butternut squash soup with garlic and ginger.