2024 Fleurie, Clos de la Roilette, 'Cuvée Tardive', Domaine Coudert

Coudert's Cuvée Tardive is, in our view, one of the greatest Beaujolais wines there is. It's made from a parcel of very old vines (some over 90) in the heart of the Clos, which lies within sight of the border with Moulin-à-Vent. The little fruit they yield is extremely concentrated. It undergoes a longer maceration, and the wine spends an extra year in oak cask compared to the "regular" Fleurie - which is also highly recommended, for earlier drinking. The resulting wine in 2024 is a real powerhouse Gamay, albeit one with freshness and detail. It should continue to improve in bottle for a decade or more.