Chateau du Moulin-a-Vent - 'La Rochelle' Red 2014

Grape

Gamay Noir (100%)

Tasting notes

“It initially has a more introspective bouquet that demands coaxing, but it is worth the effort as it reveals pure Morello cherry, red currant and cranberry scents that are neatly interlaced with minerals. The palate is medium-bodied with slightly chalky tannins. There is plenty of energy in this Moulin-à-Vent, and though it does not quite possess the length of a great vintage, it has impressive definition and focus.” 91 pts. —Neil Martin, The Wine Advocate

Expert Rating

James Suckling – 90 Points

'Aromas of dark fruit, dried meat, white peppers and dried mushrooms follow through to a medium body. Ripe fruit and a tangy finish. Leather and light, raisin undertones at the end. Drink now.'

Vinous – 93 Points

'Deep ruby. Powerful, deep-pitched raspberry liqueur, cherry and floral pastille aromas are lifted and sharpened by a peppery element. Rich and fleshy but energetic as well, offering appealingly sweet red fruit and spicecake flavors that show excellent concentration and are given spine by juicy acidity. Smoothly plays power off vivacity and finishes very long and sappy, with silky tannins lending shape and gentle grip.'

93 points – Wine & Spirits

"...you’ll find an ambitious wine with deep flavors, and a structure that provides both stature and grace. The beefy, beety, syrah-like fruit is potent and lasting, while mineral tannins lend it direction and detail. Built to cellar.”

More About The Winery

At the southern edge of Burgundy, the Moulin-à-Vent appellation has been renowned for centuries as the “King of Beaujolais,” celebrated for wines of structure, elegance, and longevity. Château du Moulin-à-Vent, named after the historic 300-year-old windmill overlooking the vineyards, dates back to 1732 and stands as one of the region’s most iconic estates.

The domaine farms 37 hectares across the appellation’s finest climats — including Les Vérillats, Le Champ de Cour, and La Rochelle — planted exclusively to old-vine Gamay Noir, averaging 40 years of age. The granite-rich soils infused with iron oxide, copper, and manganese give the wines their hallmark depth, minerality, and ageing potential.

Since 2009, under the stewardship of the Parinet family, the estate has undergone major investment in both vineyard management and winemaking. The result is a collection of plot-specific cuvées that highlight the individuality of each terroir, delivering wines that rival Burgundy in finesse and cellar-worthiness.