If you have not explored the deeper side of Beaujolais, this is a great place to begin that journey. The 2023 Chateau de Pizay Morgon shows just how serious these wines can be.
Chateau de Pizay dates back to the 11th century and has steadily built up prime vineyard holdings across Beaujolais, especially in the famed Cru Village of Morgon. In the excellent 2023 vintage, one critics have been raving about, their Morgon turned out beautifully, earning 95 points from Decanter and 92 points from Wine Enthusiast.
Darker-fruited and more brooding than many of its peers, this is a bigger, brawnier style of Beaujolais with real weight and presence on the palate. There is more structure and grip here, with dark berries and ripe cherry layered alongside notes of tea leaf, forest floor, and exotic spice.
It still walks a really nice line between pretty, pure fruit and savory depth, and if you are a Burgundy drinker, this will feel very familiar. Bravo to this veteran producer for giving us such an outstanding value in Cru Beaujolais!
This is a great example of the more serious, layered side of Beaujolais, from a producer who has been doing this for centuries. One quick question before I let you go: when was the last time you picked up a 95-point red for under $25?
Josh Spurling
Owner, Operator, Wine Monger
Table Wine Asheville
