Wines Côte-de-Brouilly Château Thivin - Cuvée Zaccharie - 2018

Viniou Reviews

Château Thivin’s Côte-de-Brouilly Cuvée Zaccharie 2018 is an exceptional example of Beaujolais craftsmanship. Crafted from the Gamay grape, this cuvée is sourced from old vines rooted on the Mont Brouilly’s steep volcanic slopes. The unique geology of this terroir, dominated by blue granite and schist, imparts a remarkable freshness and mineral character to the wine. The 2018 vintage benefited from a warm growing season, yielding grapes of optimal ripeness with expressive aromatics. Vinification here honours tradition, employing semi-carbonic maceration before ageing in used oak barrels, which adds subtle structure while preserving the grape’s pure fruit character.

The Beaujolais region, situated just south of Burgundy, is celebrated for its rolling hills, varied microclimates, and ancient soils. Côte-de-Brouilly, one of the ten prestigious crus of Beaujolais, is particularly prized for its volcanic origins. The combination of steep, well-drained slopes and mineral-rich soils produces wines of notable depth and elegance. The region’s climate is semi-continental with warm summers and mild influence from the river Saône, allowing Gamay to fully express its juicy, delicate berry profile. Historically, Beaujolais wines gained popularity in Paris and beyond for their vibrancy and approachability, yet the Côte-de-Brouilly stands out for its ability to age and its more complex structure.

This wine pairs beautifully with dishes highlighting earthy flavours and subtle spices. Classic accompaniments include charcuterie such as jambon persillé or saucisson sec, and it is marvellous with roasted poultry, especially guinea fowl or duck with a cherry reduction. For a regional pairing, consider a traditional Lyonnaise sausage with lentils or coq au vin made with the same wine. Semi-soft cheeses like Saint-Marcellin or a young Comté enhance the supple tannins and bright acidity.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Côte-de-Brouilly at 14-16°C. Decanting for around 30 minutes will allow its floral and red fruit bouquet to blossom, revealing layered nuances of violet, black cherry, and subtle mineral notes. Enjoy its elegance now or cellar for up to eight years to develop added complexity.