Julien Sunier Regnie 2022

The "Burgundian" Gamay from the Youngest Cru

In 2026, the 2022 Julien Sunier Régnié is drinking beautifully, showcasing why Sunier is considered a master of "Chambolle-style" Beaujolais. While the 2023 vintage (which we discussed earlier) is praised for its "succulent energy," the 2022 is slightly broader and more "solar," reflecting the warmth of the 2022 growing season. It possesses a bit more "volume and class," making it a highly rewarding bottle to open right now.

Sourced from 60-year-old vines primarily in the En Oeillat parcel (on the border of Morgon), this wine benefits from high-altitude pink granite soils that prevent the warm 2022 fruit from becoming too heavy.

The Terroir: Granite & Old Vines

• The Vibe: If the 2023 is "electric," the 2022 is "velvety and expansive." It feels a touch more "serious" and structured.

• The Site: Vines are planted at 280–400m elevation. The 2022 heat was mitigated by these high-altitude breezes, allowing the grapes to reach "phenolic ripeness" while keeping the alcohol at a balanced 12.5%.

• The Craft: As always, Sunier uses organic and biodynamic farming. The wine underwent a slow, chilled carbonic maceration and was aged for 9–11 months in old Burgundy barrels sourced from his friend and mentor, Christophe Roumier.

🍷 Tasting Notes (The "Vibe" in 2026)

Current reviews from 2025/2026 highlight that the 2022 has moved past its "tight" youthful stage and is now incredibly expressive.

• The Nose: Floral and Sophisticated. It leads with mulberries, wild strawberries, and tea leaves. There is a distinct floral top-note of chamomile and dried roses, followed by a hint of bark and white pepper.

• The Palate: Silky and Balanced. The entry is supple, featuring flavors of raspberry and tangerine zest. Unlike the lighter vintages, the 2022 has a "chiselled concentration" and chalky tannins that give it a lovely "grip" on the mid-palate.

• The Finish: Persistent and Mineral. It leaves a clean, saline impression of crushed stones and piquant red berries.

📋 Technical Snapshot

Best Paired With:

• The "Bistro" Match: Roast Chicken with Chanterelles or Duck Rillettes; the wine’s acidity and fruit are a perfect foil for savory fats.

• The Earthy Choice: Grilled Salmon with a pepper crust or Mushroom Tartlets; the granite minerality of the Régnié harmonizes with "umami" flavors.

• The Casual Vibe: Charcuterie and Aged Comté; the wine’s "piquancy" cleanses the palate between bites of salty cheese and meat.

Pro Tip: In 2026, critics suggest that because the 2022 is a "bigger" vintage for Sunier, it truly benefits from air. Decant for 30 minutes to allow the tea leaf and floral aromatics to fully unfurl. Serve at a cool 15–16°C.