2018 Moulin-à-Vent, Les Rouchaux, Thibault Liger-Belair, Beaujolais

For more than two decades, Thibault Liger-Belair has been following organic and biodynamic practices. He believes that winemaking starts not with the fruit, but with the soil. “We all talk about terroir, but my focus is on the soil and putting what it needs first,” Thibaut explains. His wines are pure, focused and desirable.

At the bottom of the hill with deep, silty soil over blue granite, the vineyard’s rich environment creates a bright, expressive wine with firmer tannins than usual. The finish is broad and spicy, with a white-pepper bite. It saw 40% whole-bunch, then was aged in large foudres. Drink 2021-2027.