Description
Jean-Paul Brun started Terres Dorées in 1979 with a mere 4 hectares of vines in Charnay in the southern Beaujolais. Today, the estate is around 30 acres, but with an additional 15 hectares farmed in the crus. Harvest is by hand and of well-ripened but not over-ripened fruit, so alcohol levels are generally modest.
Jean-Paul is not an adherent or advocate of “natural wine” per se, yet is among the most natural of Beaujolais vignerons, uninterested in trend or fashion but deeply committed to purity of expression of fruit and site.
Tasting Notes
The vines range in age from 40 to 60 years old and are planted on slopes sporting the area’s signature sandy clay-limestone soils, featuring the particular local “dorée” or “golden” limestone that is laden with iron. The 2023 shows a bright deep red color. The aromas are high-toned and ripe with red currant, raspberry and wild strawberry, quite bright and floral. The palate shows lush, ripe berry fruits backed by citrusy acidity, quite refreshing. The finish is long and sappy with bright red fruits and tart acidity – stock-up on this crowd-pleasing Beaujolais!
