Wines Unspecified Domaine Canailles - Rita - 2019

Domaine Canailles' “Cuvée Rita” 2019 hails from the illustrious Beaujolais region in France, a territory renowned for producing lively red wines of remarkable finesse. While details about the precise blend remain unspecified, the vast majority of Beaujolais reds—particularly those bottled in a cuvée style—are typically crafted predominantly from the Gamay grape, a variety lauded for its aromatic freshness and vibrant fruit character. The 2019 vintage, shaped by a warm and balanced growing season, tends to yield wines with expressive red fruit, supple tannins, and a certain purity of style, often accompanied by subtle floral and spice notes.

The Beaujolais region is situated just south of Burgundy and is characterised by its rolling hills, granite soils, and relatively mild climatic influences from both the continent and the Mediterranean. These granite-rich soils are particularly conducive to the Gamay varietal, encouraging wines that offer both a lightness of touch and a depth of flavour. Historically, Beaujolais has evolved from producing simple, early-drinking wines to increasingly sophisticated bottlings that reflect the diverse terroir of the region. Many domaines in the area, such as Domaine Canailles, have embraced vineyard-focused winemaking, favouring gentle extraction and minimal intervention methods for optimal aromatic expression.

With its classic Beaujolais profile, this wine lends itself beautifully to a variety of pairings. Its lively acidity and delicate tannins match effortlessly with charcuterie, roasted poultry, or grilled vegetables. For a truly regional experience, serve alongside a traditional Lyonnaise dish such as coq au vin or a platter of saucisson. Lighter fare like salmon or creamy cheeses will also complement the wine’s youthful charm.

For optimal enjoyment, serve Cuvée Rita slightly chilled, ideally at 13-15°C. Decanting for twenty minutes will help the wine open up, enhancing its aromatic complexity and subtle minerality. This is a versatile bottle, equally suited to relaxed gatherings or a more refined meal.