Domaine LAFARGE-VIAL (Beaujolais) -- 2018 Tasted from Tank Samples


This is the Beaujolais estate of Frédéric and Chantal (née Vial) Lafarge of Domaine Michel Lafarge in Volnay. Like the Volnay estate, it is run organically and biodynamically.

The wines were tasted just prior to bottling. The alcohols are in the range of 12.5-13.0º. About 25-28% whole clusters were used in the wines; what destemming took place was done by hand. I am not a fan of much of what I have tasted from 2018 in the Beaujolais, but these wines are a pleasant exception, showing very well with good finesse and freshness.


2018 Chiroubles
Ripe red fruits, grapy, spicy. (88-90)

2018 Fleurie
Ripe, spicy red and dark fruits, not too heavy or powerful. (88-90)

2018 Fleurie   Joie du Palais
Light on palate, darker fruit than pervious wines. Very elegant. (90-92)

2018 Fleurie   Clos Vernay
Finesse, lightness on palate, dark fruits, length, and structure. Main takeaway is the finesse. (89-91)

2018 Côte de Brouilly
Spicy nose. Dark fruits in mouth, light, pure. (89-91)