Georges Descombes Brouilly - Fresh! elegant, vivid and a little spicy

Georges Descombes is one of the great producers of natural Beaujolais -  the Descombes Brouilly comes from 3.5 hectares on steep slopes, farmed organically. Carbonic maceration with whole clusters then a slow vertical press to finish the fermentation. No additives, a small addition of SO2 before bottling. The 2018 shows beautifully ripe but high-toned red fruits, with lovely aromas of strawberry, blackberry and violet with herbal and citrus notes. The palate is fresh and mineral, a bit lighter and brighter than the Morgon, infused with berry fruits and citrusy acids, and the finish is long and elegant. This is a lovely food-friendly Brouilly to serve, quite cool, with chicken, pork, charcuterie and mild cheeses. David Lillie