Morgon „Château Gaillard“ AOC 2020

Wine Description for Morgon „Château Gaillard“ AOC 2020 by Romanesca

Colour & Appearance

A dense, luminous garnet red in the glass – unusually concentrated for a Beaujolais, which already hints at the power of this wine.

Nose

Complex and profound: liquorice and dry wood form the opening, accompanied by hints of warm forest floor, cinnamon and a trace of vanilla. Beneath this, ripe, sweet cherries and dark berries – an aromatic profile that recalls a powerful Burgundy rather than a classic Gamay.

Palate

A seductive charmer with silky tannins and vibrant, yet supple acidity. The dark, sweetly-fruited character dominates, threaded through with a refreshing mineral vein that gives the wine tension. Despite its power – nearly 15% alcohol – this Morgon never feels heavy or alcoholic, but remains perfectly balanced. Fleshy and muscular, yet remarkably elegant.

Finish

Long and multi-layered with saline and peppery notes that meld with smoky nuances and the juicy fruit into a harmonious finale.

Terroir & Origin

The 0.8-hectare vineyard site Château Gaillard in the north-east of the Morgon appellation sits on shallow pink granite – a terroir that imparts structure and minerality. The approximately 40-year-old vines yield a modest 30 hl/ha and are in the process of converting to organic viticulture.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Gamay Noir à Jus Blanc, hand-picked and carefully sorted. Vinification was carried out with whole bunches in a semi-carbonic maceration for 15 days – undamaged berries at the bottom, crushed ones above. Subsequently, eleven months ageing in concrete vat. This is the first release of this vineyard site by Romanesca.

Food Pairing Suggestions

With rabbit Ticino-style with polenta, Quiche Lorraine or a leek quiche with aged cow’s milk cheese. The wine’s power and structure also pairs well with more robust game dishes.

Special Features

An extraordinary, almost Burgundian Morgon with impressive concentration and elegance – the inaugural release of a promising vineyard site.