Wines Moulin-à-Vent Domaine S Ailes - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Domaine S Ailes’ Moulin-à-Vent 2021 is a classic red wine from the heart of the Beaujolais region, renowned for its expressive character and finesse. Crafted primarily from the Gamay grape, this wine embodies the essence of its terroir. The 2021 vintage benefitted from a relatively mild growing season, resulting in grapes of vibrant fruit and balanced acidity. In terms of vinification, Moulin-à-Vent often undergoes traditional semi-carbonic maceration, typical of Beaujolais, but with longer ageing and sometimes partial barrel maturation, lending structure and potential for ageing.

Moulin-à-Vent sits at the northernmost stretch of the Beaujolais cru villages, on granitic soils that impart both minerality and depth to the wine. Known as the “King of Beaujolais,” this cru enjoys a slightly warmer microclimate than its southern neighbours, with the windmill—the eponymous Moulin-à-Vent—surrounded by gently rolling hills. The granite and manganese-rich soils here restrict vine vigour, contributing to the depth, longevity, and complexity that distinguish Moulin-à-Vent from lighter Beaujolais wines. Historically, wines from this area have been celebrated for their structure and resemblance to fine Burgundy.

Pairing Moulin-à-Vent with the right dish can be a true delight. Its structured tannins and generous red fruit character render it ideal with roast poultry such as free-range chicken or guinea fowl, or with richer fare like duck breast with cherry sauce. Mushroom risottos, game birds, or noble cold cuts also marry well with this wine’s earthy undertones. For a regional touch, you might try it alongside the emblematic saucisson brioché or a rustic terrine.

For optimal appreciation, serve this Moulin-à-Vent at 15-16°C. If young, decanting for 30 minutes can help open up its bouquet. Enjoy it now for its fresh fruit profile or cellar it for several years to allow tertiary notes to develop.