Morgon French wine appellation guide: location, history, wines, climate & soil
Morgon is the second-largest of the ten Beaujolais crus and one of the most structured, known for deep, fleshy Gamay reds that can age and develop Burgundy-like complexity.
More info about Morgon
Geographic position
Eastern France, in the Rhône department, in the heart of the Beaujolais crus between Fleurie, Chiroubles and Brouilly, about 40 km north of Lyon, in the commune of Villié-Morgon; its most famous hill is the Côte du Py.
Origin & history
Vines have been grown here since Roman times, and the hamlet of Morgon is mentioned in a charter from the 10th century. Morgon became an AOC in 1936. In the 1980s local growers such as Marcel Lapierre pioneered natural winemaking here.
Wines & grape varieties
Red wine only, from 100% Gamay Noir. Expect cherry, plum, kirsch, peony and spice; with age, Morgon develops earthy notes and the locals say it "morgonne", taking on a Pinot-like character.
Climate & soil
Semi-continental climate. Blue-grey schist decomposed into a rusty, iron-rich soil called "roche pourrie" (rotten rock), plus granite and alluvium.
Wine region: Beaujolais
Grape varieties: Gamay