Chateau de Javernand - 'Les Gatilles' - Gamay - Chiroubles, Beaujolais, FR - 2023

Notes from the Winery/Importer

Gatilles are the small grey lizards that thrive in the sun-warmed, sandy, stony soils of Chiroubles. The 2023 Gatilles comes from 40–50-year-old Gamay vines planted in sandy plots over granite bedrock. All vineyards are in organic conversion. Some parcels are vinified with carbonic maceration, while others follow classic Burgundian methods. The wines are blended and aged for nine months in neutral concrete tanks before bottling. The result is a bright, juicy wine with a floral nose and notes of cherry and spice. Light yet rounded, it shows vibrant red fruit and a refreshing finish. Chiroubles, the highest of the Beaujolais crus, is known for producing some of the lightest and most refreshing wines in the region. Its sandy soils, akin to neighboring Fleurie, yield wines that are expressive, delicate, and best enjoyed young.

Notes on the Producer

Founded in 1917, Chateau de Javernand consists of a beautiful 18th century Château and almost 50 hectares of vines, located in the heights of Chiroubles, offering a wonderful view of the Saône valley. Arthur Fourneau and his good friend, Pierre Prost, produce benchmark Chiroubles from top quality vineyards, planted on poor, sandy, granite slopes, situated on what is arguably this cru's finest terroir. Arthur's great grandfather, Auguste Faye, a wine merchant from Macon, bought Javernand in 1917, after visiting and falling in love with the Château and the surrounding property. Arthur, the fifth generation, and Pierre were both sons of winemakers who met in engineering school in Lyon. They became fast friends and Pierre wound up marrying Arthur’s cousin, Mathilde, and joined the estate in 2011. They now produce four cuvees of Chrioubles and one white Macon 6.5 ha of vines currently in organic conversion and agro-ecology (planting trees). The entire property consists of another 20 ha of woods and 15 ha of fields. Chiroubles, the highest altitude of all the Beaujolais crus, produces some of the lightest yet most refreshing wines in Beaujolais. The poor, sandy, granitic soils are very similar to neighboring Fleurie yet the higher elevation has historically produced wines that are leaner in style. Recent vintages have produced wines with more depth whilst maintaining their freshness. Javernand’s are no exception, with ripe, intense aromas medium-rich textures, and elegant finishes.