Chiroubles Wine Region

Chiroubles Wine Region

Chiroubles is an appellation for red wines made from the Gamay grape variety, in France. The wine region is known internationally because of its long tradition of wine-making, the use of carbonic maceration and more recently the popular Beaujolais nouveau. This is one of the smallest Beaujolais crus with around 235 hectares of vineyards. The wine is made specifically from Gamay grapes.

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Chiroubles Region

Where is Chiroubles Wine Region

Chiroubles is a commune in the Rhône department in eastern France, located about 60 km from Lyon.

History of Chiroubles Wine

Vineyards are an old tradition in Chiroubles and have been grown there for hundreds of years. The region became famous for its wines, despite being destroyed by the phylloxera epidemic in the 19th century.

Victor Pulliat, an ampelographer who contributed significant research into grafting vines onto phylloxera-resistant rootstock, resided in the Chiroubles area and there's a monument of his work in the village.Celebrate his achievements by stopping off and seeing it so you can learn about this pioneering achievement for viticulture.

Terrior of Chiroubles

Granite is notorious for its strong erosion effects on soils and this vineyard seems to have found a perfect balance. The light, sandy soils are great for vines and remain moist throughout the summer months.The climate of this appellation tends to oceanic, with a Mediterranean and continental touch. The Chiroubles AOC was recognized from the 11th September 1936 decree.

Chiroubles Wine Characteristics 

By allowing grapes to cool overnight in Chiroubles, the harvest season can be prolonged. In Northern Beaujolais, harvesting grapes is often delayed and later than in the rest of the region. However, because of the cooler mesoclimate, Chiroubles wines tend to be fresh even if vintages are too cold. Wine grapes that are picked earlier, while they are still quite light, end up giving the wine a lighter and fresher taste. In most cases, these wines tend to have slightly fruity or floral flavor as well.

Food to pair with Chiroubles Wine

1. Andouillette

Andouillette is a traditional French sausage made from pork meat, onions, wine, pepper, and other spices. Some people find sausages to have an intense, unusual smell and can be reminiscent of urine. This is due to the fact that they contain pig's colon, which is an acquired taste for some people.

Sausage can be served hot or cold, and is traditionally enjoyed with vegetables in a red wine sauce or roasted potatoes. It pairs great with a fresh salad on the side. It pairs fantastic with Chiroubles wine.

2. Soufflé au fromage

Airy and simple, this French comfort food consists of a cheese base combined with whisked egg whites, butter, milk and flour. It puffs up into a decadent golden soufflé when baked.

Today, Soufflé au from age is typically served still hot in small dishes straight out of the oven.

Places to visit near Chiroubles

1.The Berzé-le-Châtel castle

The Berzé-le-Châtel castle, found atop its rocky spur, is a medieval fortress. Surrounded by three walls and thirteen towers, it is one of the most visited castles in France. If you decide to make the trip, you will be able to discover its furnished rooms, Carolingian chapel and terrace gardens.

2.Miellerie du Fut d'Avenas

Near Chiroubles you can visit a honey house- Miellerie du Fut d'Avenas. Learn more about the bee life, pollinating, and honey as you visit a beekeeper. During the tour you'll have an opportunity to try some of these natural, wholesome treats!

Frequently asked questions about Chiroubles Wine