Wine review: 2012 Julien Sunier Régnié is floral, spicy and complex

Beaujolais Nouveau is coming, and soon, but for wines of more character, look to Beaujolais cru for some wonderful Gamay for fall drinking. This Régnié from Dijon native (and avid surfer) Julien Sunier is a revelation. A gentler expression of Gamay, it is floral and delicately spicy. And yet it’s complex enough that you find something new in every sip. Sunier’s Morgon and Fleurie crus, like the Régnié, densely planted old vines farmed biodynamically, are worth seeking out too.

Drink the Régnié with Indian food, roast lamb or braised lamb shanks. It’s perfect for lentil stew or hearty bean casseroles too. And for a great burger, this is the wine.

Region: Beaujolais

Price: About $24

Style: Graceful and balanced

What it goes with: Indian food, braised or roast lamb, lentil stew, a burger

Where to find it: DomaineLA in Los Angeles, (323) 932-0280, www.domainela.com; Les Marchands Wine Bar & Merchant in Santa Barbara, (805) 284-0380; www.lesmarchandswine.com; and Lou Wine Shop & Tastings in Los Angeles, (323) 305-7004, www.louwineshop.com; Bar & Garden in Culver City (310) 876-0759, www.barandgarden.com; and Lincoln Fine Wines in Venice (310) 392-7816, www.lincolnfinewines.com.

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