Clusel-Roch ‘Traboules’ Gamay, Coteaux du Lyonnais, Rhône Valley, France 2022

100% Gamay from 40-year-old vines grown on granite and glacial moraine. The Coteaux du Lyonnais AOC shares a border with Beaujolais (the other famous site of Gamay!)—but its other neighbor is the Rhône, the Clusel familys ancestral home. This is one of the last vintages this will be made. 

Clusel-Roch is a family-run estate located in the northern Rhône, well-known for their exceptional, terroir-focused wines. The domaine, founded in the 1950s, expanded beyond their renowned Côte-Rôtie vineyards to include plots in the lesser-known Côteaux du Lyonnais, where they apply the same care and biodynamic principles to create expressive wines.

• WINEMAKER: Guillaume Clusel, continuing the family tradition passed down from his parents, Gilbert and Brigitte.
• FARMING: Certified organic and biodynamic, emphasizing minimal intervention and respect for the environment.
• VARIETY: 100% Gamay.
• TERROIR: The vineyards are located on granitic soils near Lyon, where large galet stones (round pebbles) provide excellent drainage and reflect heat, contributing to the ripening of the grapes.
• VINIFICATION: Hand-harvested grapes undergo semi-carbonic maceration, typical of Gamay, to highlight the fruits freshness and aromatics. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel to preserve purity.
• AGING: Aged for 6-8 months in neutral oak barrels to add texture without overpowering the wines natural vibrancy.
• TASTING NOTES: Bright red fruit flavors of cherry, raspberry, and cranberry are complemented by earthy undertones and a touch of spice. Fresh and lively, with a balanced acidity and soft tannins, this wine is perfect for enjoying young.