2022 C&C Lecareux L'Hydrophobe: The "Water Hater"

A wine of resilience in the face of disaster, a wine that emerged after the devastation of hail storms. It's also delicious and interesting, an excellent showcase of the Gamay grape. 

Back in 2017, the vineyards of Domaine Les Capréoles sustained significant damage from terrible hail storms, and they had to somehow make do with the limited amount of grapes which remained. They chose to create a new cuvée, L'Hydrophobe, the "Water Hater."

Domaine Les Capréoles was established in July 2014, although the wine estate they purchased in Regnie-Durette possessed a history of over 250 years. The term “capreoles” derives from Old French and means "vine tendrils." They only own about 5.5 hectares of organic vineyards, upon granitic bedrock, in the Brouilly appellation in Beaujolais. However, some of their Gamay vines are over 80 years old.  

The Beaujolais wine region contains 10 crus, including Brouilly, which is the largest and southernmost cru. It has been recognized as an AOC since 1938, and the history of the region extends back to the ancient Romans, who were the first to plant grapes vines in this area. The cru's name derives from the name of a nearby mountain, which was named after an ancient Roman lieutenant. 

The 2022 C&C Lecareux L'Hydrophobe ($28), composed of 100% Gamay, has a 13% ABV, and little information seems readily available on its production process. Gamay probably doesn't receive as much attention as it should, and far too many people think only of Nouveau Beaujolais when they think of the Beaujolais wine region. In the ten different Crus of Beaujolais, the Gamay grape can be expressed in many different manners, showcasing terroir, and providing a complex and compelling wine. 

I very much enjoyed this wine! With an intriguing nose of cherries, violets, and subtle spices, on the palate, it was bright, fresh, fruity and complex with silky tannins. A delightful melange of ripe plum, black cherries, hints of forest, a touch of minerality, and even a subtle briny note. Well balanced, good acidity, and a lengthy, pleasing finish. You can easily enjoy this wine on its own, but it also will pair well with a variety of foods, from pizza to burgers. It's also stated that this wine can age well for 5 years. It earns my hearty recommendation.

I bought this wine at the Cellar Door in Ipswich, a cool shop which sells wines, beers, and gourmet foods. Their wine selection is interesting, with many small production wines, organic wines, skin contact wines, and more. Wine lovers should definitely check out this shop.