The Jean-Pierre Large Morgon Cuvée Les Délys 2024 is a red wine that beautifully exemplifies the Gamay grape, the signature varietal of the Beaujolais region. The 2024 vintage promises freshness and vibrancy, offering a snapshot of a relatively young wine with exuberant fruit. The Morgon appellation is particularly noted for its ability to deliver wines with structure and depth, thanks to its unique terroir composed of weathered schist and granite soils. These soils bring complexity and minerality, while the semi-carbonic maceration typical in the area enhances the wine with lively red fruit aromas – think cherries, raspberries and hints of violets, underpinned by earthy undertones and a delicate spiciness.
Beaujolais, in central-eastern France, enjoys a semi-continental climate with warm summers and cool winters, ideal for cultivating Gamay. The Morgon cru itself is one of the ten distinguished crus of Beaujolais, reputed for wines with more body and ageing potential compared to the rest of the region. Known historically for a winemaking tradition that dates back to the Romans, the region has built a reputation on producing expressive and food-friendly reds. The soil’s mineral richness and varied exposure contribute to the particularly characterful style of Morgon, allowing it to often be compared to neighbouring Burgundy wines in terms of finesse and complexity.
Morgon pairs delightfully with a range of dishes. Its vibrant fruit and subtle tannic structure make it excellent alongside traditional Lyonnais fare such as coq au vin or andouillette. Charcuterie, terrines, and pâtés also suit this wine wonderfully, as do roasted poultry, grilled lamb cutlets, or mushroom risotto. For a regional touch, try it with a Saint-Marcellin cheese or a hearty Beaujolais sausage.
To enjoy Jean-Pierre Large Morgon Cuvée Les Délys 2024 at its best, serve it slightly cool, ideally between 14-16°C. This temperature accentuates the wine’s freshness and aromatic profile, allowing its fruit and mineral notes to shine without overwhelming its gentle tannins. Decanting for half an hour may help open up its youthful bouquet.
