2022 Wild Soul, Domaine Julien Sunier, Beaujolais

Organic négociant wines from this talented producer. Usually Lantignié fruit with some of his own young vines' produce in Fleurie.

Bright, transparent crimson. Marked acidity on the palate despite the warmth of the vintage but it really does smell like a squeezed bunch of grapes. A tad simple but very pure and a Gamay that's not at all lean and thin. Quite long and full of pleasure with a confident firm finish.

Drink 2024 - 2028

There is a slightly funky quality to the ripe aromas of plum, dark cherry and the sauvage. There is good richness, particularly for the appellation, to the middleweight flavours that conclude in a dusty, nicely complex and rustic finale. This youthfully austere and dusty effort isn’t refined but does possess undeniable character.

Drink 2025+

The 2022 Beaujolais Villages Wild Soul has plenty of red plum and raspberry coulis aromas on the nose. It’s quite forward and generous. The palate is medium-bodied with juicy red fruit, a touch of white pepper and thyme. Enjoy this over the next two or three years.

Drink 2024 - 2029

A typical Julien Sunier Beaujolais is open and juicy, but the 2022 vintage has delivered something more muscular, starting with the deep dark purple Colour. Both nose and palate, too, are notably weighty – there is a lot going on here with plenty more to develop. Yet the Wild Soul still comes in at a refreshing 12.5%.

Drink 2025 - 2027