Louis Claude Desvignes Morgon Cote du Py 2024 750ml

100% Gamay. Desvignes farms 3 hectares on the Côte du Py, which is famous for its roche pourrie or “rotten rock” of manganese-rich, decomposed schist, which makes for notably structured, long-lived wines. Their parcels average 70 years old and have a cooler northeastern exposure at the top of the Py hill.

Viticulture and vinification are consistent across all Desvignes wines. The vines are certified-organic and harvested by hand. The clusters go through a semi-carbonic maceration in closed concrete vats, with a submerged-cap maceration of 12-13 days in the case of the Côte du Py. A very small amount of sulfur (1-2 grams/hectoliter) is added after malo and sometimes at bottling. The wine is aged in concrete and bottled in the summer following the harvest with a light, non-sterile filtration.

• Country: France
• Region: Burgundy
• Appellation: Beaujolais
• Sub Appellation: Morgon
• Size: 750ml
• Color: Red

Varietal

Gamay

Gamay, a red grape varietal primarily associated with Beaujolais in France, is celebrated for its vibrant and approachable character. What makes Gamay unique is its immediate charm and versatility, offering wines that are light-bodied yet bursting with flavor. Known for its low tannins and high acidity, Gamay wines are exceptionally food-friendly and often enjoyed slightly chilled.

The grape expresses red fruit flavors such as cherry, raspberry, and sometimes a subtle hint of banana. Beaujolais Nouveau, a young and fruity style of wine released just weeks after harvest, exemplifies Gamay’s exuberant nature. Beaujolais Crus, like Morgon and Fleurie, showcase the grape’s ability to produce wines with depth and complexity.

Gamay’s allure lies in its quaffable and joyous character, making it a favorite for those seeking easy-drinking reds. The varietal’s adaptability to various winemaking styles and its delightful expression of fruit-forward characteristics contribute to its popularity, offering wine enthusiasts an accessible and delightful entry into the world of red wines.