Wines Chénas Stéphane Aviron - Vieilles Vignes - 2019

This Chénas 2019 from Stéphane Aviron, labelled “Cuvée Vieilles Vignes”, is an expressive red wine from one of the lesser-known yet deeply characterful crus of Beaujolais. Produced from old vines (“vielles vignes”), this cuvée is likely to exhibit noteworthy concentration and depth. While the precise blend is not specified, Chénas is almost exclusively planted with Gamay, so the wine will typically show the variety’s hallmark features: vibrant red fruit, floral aromatics and an enticing touch of spice. 2019 was a promising vintage in Beaujolais, marked by warm conditions that encouraged ripeness and suppleness, while careful winemaking by Stéphane Aviron would preserve the freshness and finesse expected from this terroir.

Chénas is the smallest cru in Beaujolais, nestled between the better-known Moulin-à-Vent and Fleurie appellations. Its vineyards benefit from a mix of granitic and sandy soils, lending structure and aromatic complexity to the wines. The area enjoys a semi-continental climate, with warm summers and cooling influences from surrounding forests, allowing grapes to reach full maturity without sacrificing acidity. The appellation’s name comes from the “chêne” or oak trees that once covered these lands, and its wines have historically been appreciated for both their immediate charm and ageing potential.

This cuvée pairs beautifully with classic regional dishes such as coq au vin or charcuterie, as well as roast chicken, duck, or dishes featuring earthy mushrooms. The wine’s freshness also makes it an excellent companion for lighter fare like grilled salmon or vegetable tarts, and its subtle tannins and lively fruit work well with cheeses such as Saint-Marcellin or Reblochon.

For the optimal tasting experience, serve this Chénas at around 14-16°C. Decanting for half an hour before serving can reveal extra nuances, especially given the concentration from the old vines. Enjoy within the next 5-7 years to capture its balance of fruit vibrancy and evolving complexity.