Why it matters
The producer
Antoine and Maxime Graillot established Domaine de Fa in 2013 after acquiring organically farmed vineyard sites in Fleurie and Saint Amour. Their winery is a gravity fed micro winery in Tournon-sur-Rhône, housed in the former summer cottage and family residence of Alain Graillot's mother.
The domaine's name comes from Faye, the place where the brothers converted an old stable into a cuverie. Wines are made with whole clusters in concrete, using semi carbonic maceration and indigenous yeasts.
Place and vineyards
Where the wines begin
Fleurie and Saint Amour are the Beaujolais crus where the brothers acquired their vineyard sites. Roche Guillon is a single vineyard in Fleurie, among the appellation's highest vineyard sites at 360+ meters. Higher vineyards generally ripen more slowly, which can preserve freshness in the grapes.
Wines to know
The range in view
The named red wines are Beaujolais En Besset 2022 and Fleurie Roche Guillon 2022. En Besset is the Beaujolais bottling, while Roche Guillon is a single vineyard Fleurie. Fleurie Roche Guillon 2022 has a three year drinking window.
Beaujolais En Besset 2022 has an altitude shaped, taut feel while remaining easy drinking and quietly sophisticated. Fleurie Roche Guillon 2022 shows black cherries, dried Bing cherries, almond skin and fresh sage. The wine is complex and luxurious.