Cedric Lathuiliere Morgon Vieilles Vignes

Cedric Lathuilière Morgon Vieilles Vignes: A Taste of Beaujolais Finesse

The Cedric Lathuilière Morgon Vieilles Vignes transcends the reputation of Beaujolais as a producer of light, fruity reds. Crafted from Gamay grapes grown on old vines in the esteemed Morgon cru, this wine offers a depth and complexity that will surprise and delight discerning wine drinkers.

Vineyard and Vinification

Cédric Lathuilière, the son-in-law who took over the Domaine Lathuilière-Gravallon estate, emphasises meticulous viticulture. The grapes for this Morgon Vieilles Vignes come from vines averaging 80 years old, planted on steep slopes in the Beaujolais region. This challenging terrain necessitates handwork in the vineyards, ensuring meticulous care for each vine.

The winemaking process is equally dedicated. Traditional techniques are employed, with fermentation taking place in small to medium-sized vats to preserve the unique character of each terroir. Careful selection ensures only the best grapes are used, resulting in a concentrated and expressive wine.

Tasting Profile

Cedric Lathuilière Morgon Vieilles Vignes boasts a deep ruby colour that hints at the richness within. On the nose, a burst of red fruit aromas dominates, with notes of black cherry, raspberry, and redcurrant taking centre stage. As the wine opens up, subtle hints of spice emerge, alongside a touch of earthiness that adds complexity. The oak ageing imparts a subtle woody note, which complements the fruitiness without overpowering it.

The palate is where this Morgon Vieilles Vignes truly shines. The wine is full-bodied with a surprising depth of flavour. The initial burst of red fruit is balanced by a refreshing acidity and a touch of minerality. The tannins are well-integrated, giving the wine a smooth and rounded texture. This is a wine that is both powerful and elegant, with a lingering finish that invites another sip.

Food Pairing

The versatility of Cedric Lathuilière Morgon Vieilles Vignes makes it a fantastic food pairing wine. Its robust structure allows it to stand up to richer dishes, while its vibrant fruit character complements lighter fare. Here are some perfect food pairings to explore:

• Red Meat: This Morgon is a natural companion to red meat. Grilled steaks, roasted lamb, and beef stews will find a perfect match in the wine's full body and fruit-forward flavours.
• Wild Mushrooms: The earthy notes in the wine beautifully complement the flavour profile of wild mushrooms. Sautéed chanterelles, porcini risotto, or a mushroom and truffle pizza would be delightful pairings.
• Charcuterie and Cheese: A selection of cured meats and cheeses is a classic pairing for Beaujolais wines. The Morgon Vieilles Vignes holds its own against bolder meats like salami and prosciutto, while its acidity cuts through the richness of creamy cheeses.
• Roasted Vegetables: Don't relegate this wine solely to meat dishes. Roasted vegetables like eggplant, peppers, and root vegetables can create a delicious vegetarian pairing. The smoky notes from roasting complement the subtle oak influence in the wine.
• Poultry: While typically paired with lighter reds, the robust nature of this Morgon allows it to complement certain poultry dishes. Chicken thighs roasted with root vegetables or duck breast with a cherry sauce would be excellent pairings.

Conclusion

The Cedric Lathuilière Morgon Vieilles Vignes is a testament to the potential of Beaujolais to produce complex and age-worthy wines. This is a wine that is sure to please both casual drinkers and experienced oenophiles.  With its captivating aromas, well-balanced palate, and food-friendly versatility, the Cedric Lathuilière Morgon Vieilles Vignes offers a truly memorable drinking experience.