Chiroubles

The village of Chiroubles clusters tightly around its 12th century Church, near which there is a monument to Chiroubles resident Victor Pulliat, a scientist whose work in the 19th century contributed to combatting the dreaded phylloxera, a bug ravaging the vineyards throughout Europe. Chiroubles is the most westerly Cru, and that with the highest altitude, giving excellent views over the surrounding countryside; there is a fantastic viewpoint on La Terrasse de Chiroubles, from which the Alps and Mont Blanc are visible on a clear day. The altitude contributes to a microclimate in which there can be significant temperature drops at night, and this combines with the granite-based subsoils and meagre sandy topsoils to yield light elegant ethereal wines with superb distinctive fruity Gamay aromas, often described as "feminine" in character. Chiroubles is best drunk relatively young, opening up before the other Crus, yet some long-lived weighty examples are also made, some of which are suitable for oak-aging.  Being one of the smaller Crus, it is in demand (Chiroubles is very much in vogue in Paris) and hence prices are higher than average. Drink it chilled throughout a meal, or on its own. Chiroubles also makes a great summer wine, ideal for picnics on those long lazy days.