Georges Descombes is one of the defining names of traditional Beaujolais, carrying forward the philosophy of Jules Chauvet alongside fellow legends Marcel Lapierre, Jean Foillard and Guy Breton. Working organically in the vineyard and with minimal intervention in the cellar, Descombes crafts wines that are pure, vibrant and unmistakably expressive of their origin.

His old-vine Chiroubles comes from steep, granite-rich slopes in the highest cru of Beaujolais, where the cool elevation naturally produces wines of finesse and perfume. The cooler 2021 vintage has delivered a wonderfully classic expression, favouring freshness, precision and elegance over power. Whole-bunch fermentation with native yeasts and careful élevage preserves the wine's vivid character, resulting in a Gamay of remarkable purity.

The nose is intensely aromatic, offering wild raspberry, red cherry, cranberry and crushed strawberry layered with violet, rose petal, white pepper and subtle earthy notes. On the palate it is bright, silky and beautifully balanced, with crunchy red fruits framed by lively acidity, delicate tannins and the distinctive mineral tension of Chiroubles' granite soils. Light on its feet yet impressively persistent, this is Beaujolais at its most refined — equally rewarding enjoyed young or after several years in the cellar.