2025 | Sebastien Besson Beaujolais Villages | France

The grapes bunches remain in a cold room for a night to retain the expressive aromatics before they are placed into concrete vats for natural whole-cluster fermentation. Only one or two pump overs are performed daily for just over two weeks before a gentle pressing off of the skins, and then back into the concrete to finish its fermentation. Then after six months of aging, a small sulfur addition is made before the wine is bottled. The expressive wine that results is full of bright and juicy brambly fruit on the nose, with hints of forest floor and stone, and fresh purple violets. The palate is vibrant and has enticing fruit for days; raspberry, tart cherry, and a soft umami character that dances beautifully with the lively acidity.