Foillard Morgon Cote du Py 2021

Jean Foillard's 2021 Morgon Côte du Py stands as a testament to this legendary producer's skill in navigating challenging vintages. From the revered steep slopes of this iconic vineyard, Foillard has crafted a wine of remarkable finesse and nuance despite the difficult growing conditions that characterized 2021 throughout much of France.

In the glass, the wine presents a brilliant, translucent ruby core that captures light beautifully, with subtle garnet reflections at the rim. The color depth is moderate—not as saturated as warmer vintages—hinting at the restrained, elegant character that defines this bottling.

The nose is immediately captivating, showcasing the classic Côte du Py signature with remarkable clarity. Fresh red cherries, wild strawberries, and pomegranate seeds form the aromatic core, complemented by delicate floral notes of violet and rose petal. With air, the wine's complexity unfolds to reveal deeper layers of crushed granite, iron, white pepper, and subtle herbal undertones. The volcanic, iron-rich soils of Côte du Py speak eloquently through this wine's distinctive mineral expression.

On the palate, the 2021 vintage reveals itself through crystalline purity and precision rather than power. Medium-bodied with vibrant acidity that provides exceptional tension and energy, this Côte du Py demonstrates remarkable balance. The tannins are fine-grained and seamlessly integrated, offering just enough structure to frame the fruit without overwhelming it. What impresses most is the wine's weightless intensity—delivering profound flavor concentration without heaviness.

The finish is remarkably persistent, gradually transitioning from pure fruit to pronounced mineral notes, with that unmistakable ferrous quality that defines this terroir lingering elegantly. There's a saline touch on the finish that draws you back for another sip.

While already showing beautifully, this 2021 Côte du Py possesses the structure and balance to develop gracefully over the next 7-10 years, gradually revealing more complex earthy and savory dimensions as it matures.

Foillard has once again demonstrated why he remains one of Beaujolais' most respected vignerons, crafting a wine of profound terroir expression even in a challenging vintage. This 2021 Côte du Py stands as a brilliant reminder that great winemaking often reveals itself most clearly not in perfect years, but in how challenges are transformed into opportunities for elegance and refinement.