Albert Bichot Fleurie La Madone Beaujolais 2020

More and more, Beaujolais wines are becoming part of my repertoire. I am certainly enjoying juicy, fruit forward, medium body reds. This wine has an attractive bright purple colour. It is floral as it opens up, with violet notes which evolve to raspberry and red cherry accents, with subtle graphite undertones. The palate is fine boned and linear, underpinned by vivid acidity, giving it a fresh, moreish finish. It possesses a soft slippery texture, which is detailed and precise. It displays well defined tannins, a clear sign of its pedigree. I prepared salmon pasta to match. This dish is deceptively flavoursome with leek, shredded feta, dill and freshly squeezed lemon juice. The salty, acidic and savoury characteristics enhance the wine’s fruitiness. The oiliness of the salmon carried through all the elements and linked harmoniously with the wine’s lively acidity giving it a palatable and persistent drive. What a satisfying Gamay Noir, it has plenty to celebrate.