Vintage Character The 2021 vintage in Juliénas, one of Beaujolais’ most characterful crus, brought a cool spring and challenging weather, resulting in a reduced harvest but yielding wines with notable freshness, vibrant acidity, and finely etched fruit—a compelling choice for those who appreciate energy and finesse in their reds. Lucien Le Moine’s Juliénas 2021, crafted entirely from Gamay grown on the region’s classic granite and schist soils, offers a vivid bouquet of crushed red berries, violets, and a gentle touch of spice. The palate is medium-bodied and lively, showcasing juicy cherry and raspberry flavors, supple tannins, and a mineral-driven backbone that extends into a persistent, mouthwatering finish. Its lifted profile and silky texture make it an excellent match for herb-roasted chicken, classic French charcuterie, or a mild goat cheese such as Crottin de Chavignol.
Tasting Profile & Food Pairing Lucien Le Moine, established in Burgundy by Mounir Saouma and Rotem Brakin, is acclaimed for its artisanal, small-batch approach and dedication to expressing terroir. The domaine is known for sourcing grapes from select vineyard parcels, including those in lesser-known Beaujolais crus like Juliénas, and for employing traditional Burgundian methods such as minimal intervention, careful barrel selection, and extended lees aging. Mounir and Rotem’s expertise in élevage allows each wine to develop complexity and depth, reflecting both the vintage and the unique characteristics of its origin. Their unwavering commitment to quality and authenticity has positioned Lucien Le Moine as a benchmark for expressive, age-worthy wines that capture the essence of their terroir.