# À La Folie (2018)

- **Producer:** Arpayé
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Gamay
- **Region:** Beaujolais, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Average price:** €22
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 13–15 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** cherry, raspberry, strawberry, plum, violet, black pepper, toast, cedar, forest floor, mushroom, game

## About this wine

À La Folie is an elegant expression of Saint-Amour, the northernmost Cru of Beaujolais. Produced by Arpayé, this wine captures the romantic spirit of its appellation. The estate focuses on showcasing the unique terroir of Saint-Amour, where granite, clay, and schist soils impart a distinct mineral character and vibrant fruit profile to the Gamay grape.

## Interesting facts

- Saint-Amour is the northernmost of the ten Beaujolais Crus, often associated with romance and Valentine's Day.
- Aged in massive 3,000-liter Austrian oak foudres to preserve the delicate, fresh fruit characteristics of the Gamay grape.
- The name 'À La Folie' translates to 'Madly' (as in 'madly in love'), playing on the romantic theme of the Saint-Amour appellation.

## Food pairing

The high acidity and low-to-medium tannins of Gamay make it incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with white meats, fatty fish, and earthy mushroom dishes. The bright red fruit notes complement sweet-and-savory sauces, while the light structure doesn't overwhelm delicate proteins.

## Wine making process

Crafted from 100% Gamay, the grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness. Following traditional fermentation, the wine is aged for approximately 8 to 10 months in large 3,000-liter Austrian oak tuns (foudres). This aging method allows for gentle micro-oxygenation and structural integration without imparting overpowering oak flavors, preserving the fresh, fruit-forward character of the grape.