Moulin a Vent 2024 Yvon Metras

Granite sand and weathered schist, well-exposed slopes, and old Gamay vines: these are the ingredients for this red wine from Beaujolais, bottled by Yvon Métras as Vin de France instead of an appellation label. Métras cultivates 5 hectares of vineyards in the commune of Fleurie, all of which are certified organic and planted with the Gamay variety.

The 2024 harvest was conducted by hand, as is customary here, and yields were lower across the entire Beaujolais region. Veraison (the period when the grapes change color and begin to ripen in earnest) began in early August; while later than in 2023, it was still considered early. The lower the yield, the more concentrated the grapes tend to be when they enter the fermentation tanks.

Winemaking follows the traditions of Beaujolais but takes them a step further: whole clusters are used in large quantities, followed by a semi-carbonic maceration process, and the wine is aged in tanks and neutral containers. No oak barrels are used at all. As a result, a wine has been created that fully reveals the true character of Gamay. Aromas of red fruit, peppery spice, and umami come through unfiltered, while a granite-like texture leads to a firm, dry finish.

It offers aromas of crushed raspberries and wild strawberries, with subtle floral notes lingering behind the fruit and a stony undertone. With an alcohol content of 11%, the Yvon Métras Moulin à Vent 2024 maintains a light, airy character, and the 2024 vintage emphasizes fruit flavors over tannins. The tannins have a delicate grip, resembling the pull of dry minerals rather than a solid structural wall. The mid-palate is juicy, and the finish is slightly salty. Serve chilled.

This bottling fully embodies the weight of the cru. While it can be enjoyed young, it initially feels somewhat stiff in the glass. A brief decanting is recommended; if you prefer to drink it after aging, please store it in a cool cellar.