Foillard Morgon 2023

Jean Foillard's 2023 Morgon continues the producer's stellar legacy as one of Beaujolais' most respected vignerons. This release from the warm 2023 vintage demonstrates why Foillard remains a benchmark producer for serious cru Beaujolais and a darling of the natural wine movement.

In the glass, the wine displays a captivating transparent ruby hue with violet reflections—surprisingly deep for Gamay but maintaining that characteristic luminosity that distinguishes the variety. The wine's appearance immediately suggests concentration without excessive extraction.

The nose opens with an intoxicating array of red fruits—wild strawberries, ripe cherries, and raspberry compote—complemented by subtle floral notes of violets and roses. With air, deeper aromas of warm earth, crushed stones, and delicate baking spices emerge, along with that distinctive mineral quality that defines the granite soils of Morgon.

On the palate, the 2023 vintage reveals itself through remarkable fruit density that speaks to the warm growing season, yet Foillard's characteristic restraint and precision remain intact. The wine delivers remarkable texture—silky and refined with a satisfying weight that belies Gamay's reputation for lightness. The tannins are present but fine-grained, providing just enough structure without any harshness.

What truly distinguishes this bottling is its purity and vibrancy. Despite the warmth of the vintage, Foillard has maintained exceptional freshness and energy throughout, with bright acidity balancing the concentrated fruit. The finish is long and mineral-driven, with lingering notes of crushed berries, subtle herbs, and that unmistakable granitic signature.

While already showing beautifully in its youth with a short decant, this 2023 Morgon has the structure and balance to evolve gracefully over the next 5-8 years, gradually revealing more savory and earthy complexities as the primary fruit subsides.

For those who appreciate Beaujolais with substance and authenticity, Foillard's 2023 Morgon represents a compelling expression of place that transcends the variety's sometimes simple reputation. It continues to demonstrate why Foillard remains one of the region's most respected names and why Morgon is considered among the most age-worthy of the Beaujolais crus.