Côte de Brouilly AOC is one of the ten Beaujolais crus. It occupies the upper slopes of the volcanic Mount Brouilly (484 metres/1,587 feet) and is quite distinct from the Brouilly AOC whose vineyards are three times the size and comprise the piedmont, or lower slopes flanking the mountain. 

Communes: Cercié-en-Beaujolais. | Odenas. | Quincié en Beaujolais. | Saint-Lager.

Terroir: Côte de Brouilly’s deep volcanic soils are a combination of ‘granite with blue diorite [‘cornes verges’ in French] and schist,’ (Andrew Jefford: 2002, p.110). Legend says the hill was formed when a giant, having dug out the Saône valley, tipped the debris from his basket.

Production: 2002 331 hectares produced 18,770hl (Guide Hachette des Vins 2004, p.153).

Wine style: 100% Gamay Noir à Jus Blanc. Côte de Brouilly’s better exposure means a higher degree of alcohol is required compared to Brouilly AOC. ‘Deeper colour and fruit, more intensity than Brouilly,’ (Oz Clarke: 2015, p.100). Benefits from bottle age. Typical flavours: Iris and fresh grapes.