La Presle (Domaine De)

Located in the northern part of Beaujolais and bordering Burgundy, the Fleurie cru takes its name not from a floral bouquet, as legend would have it, but from a Roman legionnaire.
The Domaine de la Presle is the result of an unbroken family history spanning more than three centuries. With the 2022 vintage, a new generation takes the helm — and what a grand entrance it is, with a wine that reflects the sunny, generous character of the year. It’s a true favorite I wanted to share with you.

The estate lies in a magical setting, its environment preserved through sustainable, environmentally conscious viticulture. Numerous fruit trees help prevent soil erosion and provide shelter for birds and pollinators. Nestled in a natural amphitheater and surrounded by vines, the estate’s historic buildings stand as a remarkable testament to the sharecropping traditions of the 18th and 19th centuries. They have been carefully restored with the support of the French Heritage Foundation to preserve their original character.

Overlooking the steep slopes, the famous Madone of Fleurie watches over the vineyards — a single stretch of land bringing together several parcels whose finest expressions are captured in this wine. The average vine age of 50 years, the high planting density, manual harvesting, and rigorous grape selection all contribute to its depth, complexity, and distinctive character.