The subtle and earthy flavors of this clear, dark reddish-violet wine are a step above everyday Beaujolais in refinement and balance, too, although it’s still typical of the region in its fresh scents of cranberry and wild strawberry with a hint of spice. On the palate it’s ripe and fresh, tart red fruit shaped by mouth-watering acidity and distinct, gently astringent tannins. Good acidic balance and comfortable 12.5% alcohol makes it a winning table wine with versatile capability for pairing with food. U.S. importer: Louis Latour Inc., San Rafael, Calif. (Aug. 18, 2016)

FOOD MATCH: The producer suggests “White meats, grilled entrecote steak, barbecued ribs, appetizers and cheese.” We paired it with a light summer farmers’ market dinner of fresh Christmas lima beans braised with tomatoes, onions and garlic with a hint of bay leaf.

WHEN TO DRINK: The wines of the named Beaujolais villages are considered better for cellaring than simple generic Beaujolais or even Beaujolais-Villages, which are best drunk up within a few years of the vintage. Regnié and its cousins, conversely, may gain complexity and elegance with careful cellaring under controlled temperature. Even so, it’s not a wine to leave for your grandchildren. Drink now or cellar properly and start sampling within five years of the vintage. Also, its taint-free “Diam” cork offers assurance that the wine will stay clean in the cellar.

VALUE:
My local retail price is closely aligned with the $16 average retail reported on Wine-Searcher.com, and I think that’s a reasonable value for this interesting, food-friendly table wine.

WEB LINK
Here is producer Henry Fessy’s website in English. For a fact sheet on this wine, check this link.

FIND THIS WINE ONLINE:
Compare prices and look for vendors for Château des Reyssiers Regnié at Wine-Searcher.com