From: Lhuis, Bugey, France
Varietal: Gamay
Taste: This presents a vibrant ruby-red hue with a youthful, translucent clarity that reflects its fresh and lively nature. On the nose, it offers a bouquet of ripe red fruits, including strawberries, raspberries, and cherries, layered with subtle floral notes of violets and a hint of spice. Earthy undertones and minerality add complexity. The wine is light to medium-bodied on the palate, with juicy red fruit flavors dominating, complemented by a refreshing acidity and silky tannins. The finish is clean and precise, with a mineral edge that enhances its vibrancy and leaves a lingering impression of red berries and a whisper of spice.
Pairing: To pair this wine, opt for dishes that complement its light to medium body, bright acidity, and vibrant red fruit flavors. It pairs best with foods not overly rich, allowing the wine's delicate character to shine. Grilled chicken with herbs, such as thyme and rosemary, enhances the wine’s fresh and herbal notes. Another choice is a creamy polenta topped with sautéed seasonal vegetables, offering a rich yet balanced pairing. In contrast, a charcuterie board featuring mild cured meats like prosciutto or salami paired with soft cheeses like Brie and a touch of cranberry chutney. Try this Grilled Chicken With Parsley-Olive Sauce. The parsley-olive sauce in the recipe adds a briny and herbal dimension that aligns well with the wine's profile. The Gamay's fresh acidity cuts through the olive oil's richness and harmonizes with the parsley's herbal notes, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Grilled Chicken With Parsley-Olive Sauce
By Ali Slagle
About: Domaine D'ici Là, established in 2017 by the young couple Florie Brunet and Adrien Bariol, is nestled in the Bugey region of France, between the Rhône River and the mountains. The estate spans approximately 6 hectares of vineyards across Montagnieu, Lhuis, and Groslée communes. The vineyards are situated on steep limestone slopes, providing a unique terroir that contributes to the distinct character of their wines.
The estate cultivates traditional grape varieties of the region, including Altesse, Chardonnay, Mondeuse, and Gamay. From winter pruning to harvest, all vineyard work is performed manually, ensuring meticulous care of the vines. Grapes are hand-harvested in small 30-liter crates to preserve the quality of the fruit. This hands-on approach reflects their commitment to producing high-quality, terroir-driven wines.
