Vivian Liang | September 23, 2021
Beaujolais made its name internationally with the annual worldwide celebration of Beaujolais Nouveau Day, which falls on the third Thursday in November. Wine drinkers often associate the region with its vibrant, fruit-driven Nouveau style, the unique early release of the wines just weeks after the harvest.
The Gamay grape is incredibly versatile and cheerful. The instant pleasure of the November release is undeniable but many Cru Beaujolais offer much more than that, with complexity and opulence that could rival top-quality Pinot Noir. Explore our selection below to discover some of these wines.
Jean Foillard
Jean Foillard is one of the leading producers of the region with fantastic wines, I particularly love his Morgons. His meticulous vineyard management and winemaking include, but are not limited to, eliminating synthetic chemical treatment, rigorous grapes selection, and no filtration.
The Morgon Cuvée Corcelette 2018 is made from over 50-years-old vines. The wine is aromatic, elegant and showing aromas of strawberries and white flowers while the Fleurie 2018 is rounder and slightly fuller in body with raspberries and rose petal notes.
Morgon Athanor 2015 is produced from some 80-years-old vines from the Côte du Py vineyard. It shows great purity, elegance, and depth; I adore its charming bouquet of wild berries, generous texture, and long finish.
Maison Leroy
The great Maison Leroy, the négociant business founded in 1868, is currently under the care of Lalou Bize-Leroy. This gorgeous Beaujolais Villages 2020 is vibrant, juicy, and fruity. It is a cheerful wine that would be perfect as a happy hour drink or paired with spicy food, thanks to its boldness.
"Once one knows how to taste wine, one no longer simply tastes wine but its profound secrets.” by Lalou Bize-Leroy.
