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Vin de France Popette Julie Balagny 2018

Julie Balagny was one of the young leading lights who have left their mark on Beaujolais and continue to inspire the region today. Born in Paris, Julie left the capital to be closer to the community of winemakers she always admired. She first cut her teeth at Château de Rey, then at Domaine Terre des Chardons in the south of France; spotted by Yvon Métras, she set up her business in Fleurie in 2009.
Passionate about Gamay, she cultivated Gamay across 3.2 hectares in Fleurie, 1 hectare in Beaujolais and 0.7 hectares in Moulin-à-Vent. Initially drawn to the principles of organic farming before embracing natural wine, she ultimately abandoned all certification, championing above all a reasoned, pragmatic approach to viticulture rather than the constraints of a label. She treated her vines with herbal infusions and added neither yeast nor sulphur to the wines, relying solely on vatting temperatures. She prided herself on giving the wines plenty of time, so she could bring natural wines that were stable to the market. As a result, these are bold, full-of-character wines that are now recognised across the region and well beyond.
Following their tragic passing in 2023, the estate remains closed but continues to leave a lasting impression.

Popette de Julie Balagny is a natural and joyfully one-of-a-kind sparkling rosé. It’s classified as a Vin de France but born on the granite hills of the Beaujolais region, in the village of Fleurie. The pink granite terroir, typical of northern Beaujolais wines, gives this wine freshness, finesse and a subtle mineral sparkle. Julie Balagny grows her vines biodynamically using a non-interventional approach, therefore prioritising soil life and the energy of living organisms. The wine is made using traditional methods by naturally fermenting the grapes in barrels before bottling with the residual sugars, allowing the sparkling process to occur without any additives. No additives are used, and the wines are often made without sulphur.
Upon tasting, Popette has a slightly cloudy pale pink colour, a sign of its natural vinification. The lively nose is marked by aromas of fresh red fruits, crushed raspberry, redcurrant and acacia blossom. On the palate is an explosion of freshness and fine bubbles with refreshing acidity and pure aromas.