Product Description
Named in honour of Daniel Bouland’s daughter, Cuvée Mélanie is a special expression of Beaujolais' Côte de Brouilly, crafted from a small, steep 0.8-hectare plot on the slopes of Mont Brouilly. The vineyard’s 70-year-old vines are planted on the famous terres bleu (blue volcanic soils) of the Tête Noire lieu-dit, above the renowned Château Thivin. These unique soils, rich in blue schist, imbue the wine with a characteristic minerality that sets Côte de Brouilly apart. Bouland’s low-yield, whole-bunch fermentation approach, along with the small parcel of high-density vines (12,000 per hectare), results in a wine of great intensity and complexity. The 2023 vintage reveals deep aromatics, dark fruit, and the earthy spice of the terroir, with a structural backbone that promises ageing potential. This is a bold, fleshy wine, with layers of dark berries and spice, and plenty of depth.
Maker
Daniel Bouland is one of Beaujolais’ most revered vignerons, known for producing wines of exceptional depth and character. Bouland’s approach to winemaking is deeply rooted in tradition, with a focus on small-scale, artisanal production. He works with old-vine Gamay from some of the most respected crus in Beaujolais, including Morgon, Côte de Brouilly, and Chiroubles. His wines undergo minimal intervention, including natural fermentation with indigenous yeasts, whole-bunch maceration, and little to no fining or filtration. Bouland’s wines are known for their balance of fruit, minerality, and structure, and his dedication to showcasing the unique qualities of each vineyard has made him a cult figure among wine enthusiasts.
Philosophy
Bouland’s winemaking philosophy is simple: great wines are made in the vineyard. With a deep respect for his terroir, he emphasizes sustainable practices and works to preserve the natural harmony of his vineyards. Bouland’s approach to winemaking is focused on expressing the true character of his vineyards through minimal intervention. By fermenting naturally and ageing his wines in neutral vessels, he allows the inherent qualities of the Gamay grape and the surrounding environment to shine. His wines are known for their authenticity, depth, and potential for aging.
Tasting Notes
NOSE
Dark Berries, Christmas Spice, Earthy
The nose opens with deep, dark berry aromas—blackberries, plums, and ripe cherries—intertwined with complex notes of Christmas spice, including cinnamon and clove. There’s an earthy undertone, a hallmark of the unique blue schist soils, that adds depth and intrigue to the aromatic profile.
PALATE
Fleshy, Bold, Structured
On the palate, Cuvée Mélanie 2023 is full-bodied and fleshy, with layers of dark fruit, including ripe blackberries and blackcurrants. The richness is balanced by earthy spice and a touch of minerality from the terroir. The tannins are structured, providing a solid backbone while allowing the wine’s fruit and spice to shine through.
FINISH
Long, Spicy, Mineral
The finish is long and persistent, with lingering spice notes and a subtle mineral edge. The tannins gradually soften, revealing a wine that is both powerful and elegant, with a structural chassis that will allow it to age gracefully.
Reviews
"A wine that truly captures the essence of Côte de Brouilly. Deep, bold, and layered with dark fruit and spice, this cuvée is a standout from the 2023 vintage." — The Wine Advocate
"An explosive wine with a rich, fleshy palate and a spicy, mineral finish. Bouland’s Côte de Brouilly is always a wine of depth, and this vintage is no exception. A wine that can evolve beautifully with time." — Beaujolais Wine Review
The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Gamay
Country - France
Region - Beaujolais, Côte de Brouilly
Vintage - 2023
Bottle Size - 1.5L
ABV - 14.5%
Closure - Cork
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