Vignerons de Bel Air Chiroubles 2017

This charming, fruit filled cru red comes from the Vignerons de Bel Air, whose fathers and grandfathers first grouped together in 1929 to better withstand the worldwide economic downturn. They’re still going strong some 90 years on. Fabulous, fruity, juicy and elegant, this is a terrific red for cold meats, picnics and chicken. And spot on in summer, when it can be chilled for 30 minutes or so in the fridge. With 10 Beaujolais Crus, each with their individual character and charm, why select Chiroubles? Not least because its aromas are particularly fresh and intense (recalling, some say, the scent of the peony), for Chiroubles, at 400 metres above sea level, is the highest of the Beaujolais Crus. Great value for such a distinctive classic.