2020 Justin Dutraive Beaujolais Village Les Tours

Region: Beaujolais, Burgundy, France

Grape: Gamay

Culinary Suggestions: Garlic Snails, Chinese Cuisine, Roast Duck

Vineyard Practice: Organic

About

Justin Dutraive is a young winemaker making a name for himself in the Beaujolais region. At just mid-20s, he's already got five vintages under his belt, and his reputation is growing fast. His style is evolving too, moving towards a lighter, more idyllic approach as he gains recognition as one of the leaders of the second generation of natural winemakers in Beaujolais.

His vineyards are all worked organically, with everything done by hand, including weed removal. His techniques and philosophy are very similar to those of his father, but with his own twist. Justin's focus is on producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of his vineyards. Justin is doing just that with his Beaujolais-Villages Les Tours vineyard, sitting between corn and wheat fields, producing a cuvée that offers exceptional value and quality.

But it's not just his Beaujolais-Villages that's turning heads. Justin also leases and owns other vineyards, including the Fleurie La Madone vineyard, which he purchased in late 2018. The vines here are located at the top of a hill, directly behind the famous chapel of La Madone, and the rich soils produce a fuller, richer style of wine. And let's not forget about his prized 100-year-old Fleurie Chapelle des Bois vineyard, passed down from his grandfather Jean-Claude. This one sits on even richer soils and produces a style only available in magnums.

Justin's wines are created with love, care, and a sense of place. His commitment to organic farming and natural winemaking has earned him a place among the greats in Beaujolais. If you're looking for a taste of the next generation of natural winemakers, look no further than Justin Dutraive.

Tasting Notes

It’s 14.5% alcohol and you can’t feel it, so high is the fruit concentration. It’s very attractive. The freshest wild berries straight from the bush. Sweet raspberries, bright cherries. Forest after the rain, wet leaves, moss. Very intense both in aromas and flavours with a long finish. It’s one that doesn’t need food, just good company and a great chat.

94 points - Kasia Sobiesiak, The Wine Front February 2023

Drink: 2023 - 2028