Monnet Julienas VV 2021

Monnet’s wines are a perfect reflection of the vigneron himself – honest, friendly and unassuming. In a world where even everyday wines have begun to creep up in price, Monnet’s wines are the same bargain they’ve always been.

The 2021 vintage, aside from disastrous frosts and hail storms, marked a return (however briefly) to a cooler style of winemaking. Yields were low and berries quite small, so the wines remain concentrated – but the freshness missing from the last few vintages returned, and the wines are beautifully balanced. “A return to gamay classique,” Monnet told us. The nose is deep and intense, with perfume of roses, violets, and stones. The mouth is inky and rich as always with the old-vine cuvée, but the lift and energy of the vintage carry the wine expertly. The finish is crisp and focused.