Marcel Lapierre Morgon 'Cuvee Marcel Lapierre'

Vintage: 2022

Origin: Morgon, Beaujolais, France

Grapes: Gamay

Alcohol: 14.5%

Named after the iconic pioneer of the natural wine movement, Cuvée Marcel Lapierre is an exclusive bottling produced only in exceptional vintages. It represents a meticulous selection of the estate's oldest vines, some over 100 years old, spread across 2.5 hectares of prime terroir. The blend is primarily sourced from the Côte du Py, characterized by its volcanic "roches bleues" schist, along with fruit from the Douby climat, which features shallow granitic soils. Following the family’s strict non-interventionist philosophy, the wine is crafted to be a deep and age-worthy expression of Gamay, focusing on structural power and concentration that reflects the prestige of its namesake.

The 2022 vintage is a serious and layered Beaujolais that rewards patience in the cellar. On the nose, it is highly aromatic and floral, although it can exhibit a hint of youthful reduction that dissipates with time. The palate is built around a core of good acidity and fine tannins, offering a complex mix of earthy tones, wild herbs, and spices. A distinctive irony finish provides a mineral edge to the concentrated fruit. While its depth and structure make it less ideal for immediate drinking compared to other Beaujolais, it is a magnificent candidate for cellaring through 2035, where it will continue to develop its sophisticated profile.