Wines Fleurie Georges Duboeuf - La Madone - 2023

Viniou Reviews

Georges Duboeuf’s Fleurie “Cuvée La Madone” 2023 is a striking representation of one of the most esteemed crus of Beaujolais. Crafted exclusively from the Gamay grape, this wine is renowned for its elegance, finesse and floral character. The 2023 vintage benefited from a relatively mild spring, followed by a warm summer with moderate rainfall, leading to grapes of exceptional ripeness with lively acidity. The vineyards of La Madone are sited on steep granite slopes, which contribute complexity and minerality to the finished wine. The vinification process generally employs traditional semi-carbonic maceration, which preserves the grape’s vibrant fruit and enhances the wine’s silky tannins, resulting in a supple, perfumed red packed with aromas of peony, violets, and ripe red berries.

Fleurie stands out within the Beaujolais region, often called the “Queen of Beaujolais” for its graceful, floral-driven wines. The region enjoys a moderate continental climate with warm, sunny days and cool nights, ideal for slow and even ripening of the Gamay grapes. Granite-rich soils are a defining feature of Fleurie’s terroir, imparting a unique freshness and an unmistakable mineral undertone. Historically, Beaujolais was regarded mainly for its young, fruit-driven wines, but crus like Fleurie have elevated the area’s reputation, particularly through producers such as Georges Duboeuf.

The refined structure and aromatic brightness of this Fleurie 2023 make it a versatile choice at the table. It pairs beautifully with delicate poultry dishes such as roast chicken with fresh herbs, or rabbit in mustard sauce. Regional specialties like Lyon-style sausage with lentils or a classic coq au vin are also excellent companions. Its floral lift and soft tannins make it an equally charming partner for grilled salmon or a goat’s cheese salad.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine slightly cool at around 13-15°C. Decanting for 30 minutes can further reveal its bouquet. Enjoy within the next three to five years to fully appreciate its youthful vibrancy and aromatic intensity.