# Fleurie La Roche 'hampagne (2022)

- **Producer:** Domaine des Marrans
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Gamay
- **Region:** Beaujolais, France
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Average price:** €22
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black cherry, raspberry, red cherry, black raspberry

## About this wine

Fleurie La Roche 'hampagne 2022 from Domaine des Marrans is a 100% Gamay from the Fleurie Cru appellation in Beaujolais, France. The wine's name, 'La Roche 'hampagne,' is a respectful acknowledgment of its specific vineyard site, known as Champagne, which cannot be officially used on the label. Domaine des Marrans, founded in 1970, is now managed by Mathieu Mélinand, who adheres to a philosophy of minimal intervention and sustainable viticulture. The estate's vines, aged 60 to 80 years, are planted on south-facing slopes at 310 meters elevation, on soils composed of quartz and pink granite. The 2022 vintage was marked by a smaller but high-quality harvest, contributing to the wine's concentration.

## Interesting facts

- The name 'La Roche 'hampagne' is a clever nod to the vineyard's climat name.
- Vines at Domaine des Marrans are between 60-80 years old.
- The vineyard is south-facing at an elevation of 310 meters.
- Sustainable farming is a core practice at the estate.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium body and gentle tannins complement leaner proteins like pork, chicken, and veal. Its bright acidity cuts through richer elements like sauces and fatty meats, while its fruit-forward character harmonizes with earthy mushrooms and sweet fruit accompaniments.

## Wine making process

Fleurie La Roche 'hampagne 2022 is produced using whole-cluster fermentation and semi-carbonic maceration, a process lasting around 13 days. This technique is employed to enhance the natural fruit expression of the Gamay grape. Following fermentation, the wine is aged in large foudres, typically older oak vessels ranging from 40 to 63 hectoliters. This aging strategy prioritizes the prominence of the fruit, ensuring it is not overshadowed by oak influence. The producer, Domaine des Marrans, practices sustainable viticulture, including training vines in the traditional 'goblet' style and focusing on low yields to achieve high-quality fruit. The 2022 vintage was characterized by a smaller harvest that yielded grapes of exceptional quality.