# Fleurie (2021)

- **Producer:** Julien Sunier
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Gamay
- **Region:** Beaujolais, France
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 11.5%
- **Average price:** €39
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** rose, red cherry, violet, raspberry

## About this wine

The Fleurie from Julien Sunier is a 100% Gamay wine from the Fleurie AOC in Beaujolais, France. Julien Sunier, inspired by Burgundy's winemaking traditions, founded his domaine in 2008 with a dedication to organic and biodynamic farming. His philosophy centers on minimal intervention winemaking to allow the terroir to express itself. The vineyards are situated on granite slopes in Fleurie, with vines ranging from 25 to 60 years old. The 2021 vintage benefited from warm, dry weather, leading to concentrated fruit and balanced structure. This wine is distinctive for its low alcohol content and its purity, reflecting the elegance characteristic of the Fleurie appellation.

## Interesting facts

- Low 11.5% alcohol for a refreshing profile.
- Vineyards sit on southeast-facing granite slopes.
- Uses an ancient vertical press for fruit extraction.
- Certified vegan-friendly.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium body and moderate acidity make it versatile. It can cut through the richness of pork and duck, complement the delicate flavors of chicken and fish, and its subtle fruit notes harmonize with earthy mushrooms and savory charcuterie.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Fleurie Julien Sunier 2021 begins with hand-harvested Gamay grapes. Fermentation is initiated with indigenous yeasts in concrete vats at low temperatures, utilizing a blend of carbonic and semi-carbonic maceration for 10-20 days. The wine is then aged for 8-11 months in used oak casks, with no racking during this period. A minimal amount of sulfur dioxide is added just before bottling. The producer adheres to organic and biodynamic farming practices.