2005 Louis Jadot Beaujolais-Villages Burgundy France. 12.5% alcohol. 100% Gamay. http://www.louisjadot.com/ $8.00 at Wine Cellars, Ridgewood, NJ.
Deep garnet red color, clear hue, wonderful aromas and tastes of strawberries with black pepper, mild tannins, bright acidity, in perfect balance, full mouth feel, almost chewy, a very pretty and refreshing finish with lovely fruit and spice notes. A wonderful wine on a hot May afternoon. 4*+. And a great QPR.
Note: Matt Kramer: "Although small growers usually have an edge in offering wines of the highest quality, it's not impossible for high-minded shippers to compete. Proof is found in this exceptional 2005 Beaujolais-Villages from the shipper Louis Jadot. Here again, I can honestly say that if Jadot has ever made a better Beaujolais-Villages than this 2005 vintage, I haven't tasted it. It's that good. This is very substantial (and very pinot noir-like) gamay that is far superior to its modest "Beaujolais-Villages" designation. Succulent yet austere, this 2005 offers black fruit scents and tastes of black raspberry and wild cherry delivered with impressive austerity and nuance. Here's the best part: It's a steal."
It sure is!
Regards, Bob