# Raisin Libre

- **Producer:** Domaine Thillardon
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** 100% Gamay
- **Region:** Beaujolais, France
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 12.0%
- **Average price:** €23
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now
- **Serving temperature:** 11–13 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** raspberry, cherry, red plum, violet, black pepper

## About this wine

Raisin Libre is a 100% Gamay from the Beaujolais AOC, produced by Domaine Thillardon. The Thillardon family, including founder Paul-Henri and his siblings, are dedicated to organic and biodynamic farming, creating a biodiverse farm ecosystem to support their vineyards. This wine is known for its minimal intervention winemaking, often referred to as 'zero-zero' (no added sulfites, no added yeast). It is designed to be an approachable and transparent expression of Beaujolais Gamay, intended for enjoyment in its youth.

## Interesting facts

- The name 'Raisin Libre' translates to 'Free Grape', highlighting its natural winemaking approach.
- The Thillardon family uses horses for plowing on their steepest vineyard plots.
- This wine is considered the most 'glou glou' (easy-drinking) in the Thillardon range.
- No added sulfites are used in the winemaking process.

## Food pairing

The wine's bright red fruit character and light body make it versatile. Its subtle spice notes complement richer dishes, while its juicy acidity cuts through fattiness in meats and cheeses. The minimal tannins ensure it doesn't overpower lighter fare.

## Wine making process

Raisin Libre is produced using minimal intervention techniques. The Gamay grapes undergo whole-cluster fermentation and semi-carbonic maceration for 12-16 days in concrete tanks, utilizing native yeasts. The wine is then aged for about 8 months in neutral vessels such as stainless steel or concrete. It is bottled unfined and unfiltered, with no added sulfites, to preserve its natural character and purity. Some vintages may involve chilling the must to manage fermentation.