($29, Jeanne-Marie de Champs):  Though Chiroubles, one of the ten Crus (named villages) of Beaujolais borders Fleurie, the wines are vastly different, which is what makes drinking wines from the Beaujolais Crus so fascinating.  Château de Raousset, one of the region’s top producers, makes both.  This beauty, from the lieu-dit of Bel-Air conveys rich red fruit yet is not a particularly fruity wine.  It is a masterful paradox.  Pure and crystalline, its firmness balances the fleshiness and reminds you of the granitic soil.  A delectable hint of bitterness in the finish adds to its appeal.  It’s a delight now.
93 Michael Apstein Jan 30, 2024