Bruno Perraud is a sixth-generation vigneron in the hills of Vauxrenard, in the upper Beaujolais. He founded his domaine in 1987 and was joined by Isabelle in 1989, growing the estate from 1.5 hectares to around 8.5.
Backstory
In 1999 Bruno's health was badly damaged by the insecticides he was using in the vines. The shock pushed the couple toward organic farming, a commitment that has anchored their work ever since. The estate is also known by the name of its flagship cuvée, Côtes de la Molière.
The Region
The vines sit around Vauxrenard in Beaujolais, in eastern France, in the granite hill country that gives the region's Gamay its lift and perfume.
Vineyards and Farming
The Perrauds farm organically, with some vines exceeding 90 years of age. Many of their wines carry the Vin Méthode Nature certification, which guarantees organic farming, hand-harvesting, indigenous-yeast fermentation, and minimal sulfur under 10 milligrams per liter.
Winemaking
Winemaking centers on whole-bunch Gamay and semi-carbonic maceration, mostly in stainless steel, with French oak playing a subtle role in select cuvées. The wines are made without added sulfur or other additives and are neither fined nor filtered.
The Wines
The result is a range of bright, ripe, fruit-forward Beaujolais, from everyday cuvées to a Saint-Amour, all built for pleasure and purity.
