The 2024 vintage in Beaujolais is shaping up as a classic 'old school' vintage in the best sense — a return to freshness and finesse after a run of riper, more "solar" years. Kermit Lynch likens it to an acoustic set rather than a full stadium show, meaning less overt power and concentration, but real charm, elegance and precision in its place. Tasting this January, I found wines with vivid red fruit — cherry, strawberry, raspberry — lifted by violet and floral notes, vibrant acidity, and supple, gossamer tannins, giving the wines an immediate, juicy drinkability alongside genuine purity of expression.
A cooler, fresher year like 2024 is just perfect following a run of riper years, and in my experience with Jean's wines they last every bit as long as the big vintages - in my mind, 2004, 2006 and 2012 are case in point.