Saint-Amour 1973

Adjoining Juliénas, this romantically named cru is Beaujolais' most northern. Its name comes from Saint Amateur, a Roman soldier who was converted to Christianity and founded a monastery in the area. The nature of the terroir is such that Saint Amour can produce wines with a fine capacity to age. However, some winegrowers shorten the maceration period to obtain lighter wines that can be drunk earlier. As a result there are two styles of wine: the first is very elegant and complex; these are soft, fruity wines, very typical of the region, that develop delicate aromas of red fruit and peonies. They should be drunk during the two years that follow the harvest. The second style of wine has deep crimson-purple garnet colour, and is well-structured, powerful, voluptuous, and full-bodied, characterized by aromas of kirsch and spices. They should be kept for several years to let them develop their full charm and finesse.