The story of Domaine Chapel exemplifies the promise of Beaujolais, one of the few regions where aspiring winemakers can afford access to great terroir, and a place where it’s possible to receive help and guidance... Read More

The story of Domaine Chapel exemplifies the promise of Beaujolais, one of the few regions where aspiring winemakers can afford access to great terroir, and a place where it’s possible to receive help and guidance from its most venerated names.

For Domaine Chapel, founded by David Chapel and Michele Smith-Chapel, this assistance and guidance came from both Lapierre and Métras, two giants of both natural wine and Beaujolais. It was while working for Lapierre in 2013 that David met Michele. It was not so long before they married and relocated to Beaujolais, making their first wine, a 2016 Julienas, with the help (and facilities) of Lapierre siblings Mathieu and Camille.

The Chapels subsequently acquired their own winery and more vines, including a parcel of Fleurie vineyard Charbonnières, a great terroir somewhat famous because it’s also farmed by the legendary Yvon Métras.