A century ago, when Beaujolais’ Crus were re-classified, Roilette was moved from the older, established Moulin-à-Vent appellation to the new Fleurie. Was this an error? 

What makes Moulin-à-Vent special is the presence of manganese in the soils. This has a tendency to deepen Gamay and to give it more structure. It’s no wonder that for centuries Moulin-à-Vent has been considered a grand vin, comparable to a great Burgundy. And indeed, it’s a Cru Beaujolais that can age incredibly well, often tasting more and more like Premier Cru Burgundy as it develops.

It turns out that some of the vineyard land that was shifted from Moulin-à-Vent to Fleurie also had those manganese soils. It’s on this special patch of very Moulin-à-Vent-like soils that Coudert’s Roilette has its core holdings.

That’s not to say that this transfer was all a big mistake. What we love about Roilette’s wines is they possess that Moulin-à-Vent depth and structure but also the floral qualities and finesse and great Fleurie. This is a cross-over wine, and we love it. 

But history has a way of going around in big circles, and the Coudert’s recently closed one such loop by actually coming up with a Moulin-à-Vent! The 2023 is a first release, and you will definitely not want to miss this historic offering.

Clos de la Roilette Fleurie 2023 - $24.99
Dark, yet translucent fruit gives way to warm baking spices and a touch of cool minerality in this simply lovely Fleurie. Vibrant notes of pomegranate, mulberry and plum give way to a strikingly complex tannic structure—evident but not overwhelming—and that trademark Roilette concentration.

Clos de la Roilette (Domaine Coudert) Moulin-a-Vent 2023 - $29.99
A brand new cuvée as of last year, and a welcome addition to the lineup. Made just like the Fleurie, so structured, dark-fruited and savory, with a polished, slightly more rugged structure. Drink now with food, or cellar up to a decade (maybe even longer!).

Clos de la Roilette Fleurie Cuvee Tardive 2023 - $29.99 or 1.5L $64.99 or 3L $164.99 
80+ year old vines and a little longer maceration time makes this one of Beaujolais' few genuine vins-de-gardes. If you want to drink it today, have it with something substantial, like steak. Yes, a Beaujolais that pairs well with steak.