2023 Daniel Bouland Morgon Delys Vignes de 1926 Organic, Beaujolais

“This estate is one of my personal reference points for the Beaujolais. Concentrated and succulent, Bouland's wines are beautifully differentiated by site and age gracefully…” 

William Kelley robertparker.com

“This tiny wine grower of the hamlet of Corcelette… has seduced us for a few years now with his concentrated and textured Morgons. The fruit weight in no way masks the almost wild minerality of the soil. These wines have an intensity that can only come from old vines that are impeccably cultivated… We do not hesitate to say that you will find here the best value for money in red wine [in this guide].” 

La Revue du Vins de France

“The wines are made traditionally, with whole bunch-fermentations, native yeasts and aging in neutral oak casks before bottling without filtration. Bouland has a rabid following in France and overseas so his wines are never easy to track down.” 

Josh Raynolds vinous.com

This wine used to come to us simply as Morgon Vieilles Vignes without the name of the vineyard or lieu-dit (it is now labelled Morgon Les Délys Vignes plantées en 1926). It comes from a single hectare of 100-year-old vines located on the Morgon-Chiroubles border at the end of the Corcelette valley—a terroir historically known as Délys. The old, gnarled vines sit on a southeast-facing slope, planted at 10,000 vines per hectare. 

Humming like an idling V8 engine, it’s always deep and chewy when young—built for long aging in the cellar. The 2023 is saturated with blue and wild berry fruits underscored by cracked pepper and cardamom spice, liquorice root and forest floor complexity. The palate is infused with unstoppable velvety fruitiness and length of flavour rare for the region. Bouland admits that if he could find the grafting materials he needs, he would start to replant this ancient parcel—it yields too little juice for his liking. Just as well he can’t: this is one of the greatest single-vineyard wines in all of Beaujolais.

The Morgon Delys Vignes de 1926 is made from Gamay grapes, a variety that thrives in the granite-rich soils of Beaujolais. The wine is produced using organic farming practices, with no synthetic chemicals or fertilizers, which allows the natural characteristics of the grapes and the land to shine through. The fermentation process is done with native yeasts, and the wine is aged in a mix of concrete and older oak barrels, allowing it to develop complexity while retaining its fresh, fruity character.

On the nose, the Daniel Bouland Morgon Delys Vignes de 1926 Organic reveals aromas of ripe red fruit, such as cherry and raspberry, along with earthy and floral notes. There are subtle hints of spice and minerality, reflecting the old vines and the unique terroir of the vineyard. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied yet silky, with flavors of dark berries, a touch of pepper, and a vibrant acidity that provides structure and freshness. The tannins are fine and well-integrated, allowing the wine to be both approachable and age-worthy, with a long, lingering finish.

This Morgon is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. It complements roasted meats, such as duck and pork, as well as charcuterie, grilled vegetables, and creamy cheeses. Its balance of fruit, acidity, and structure makes it an excellent choice for both casual meals and more refined dining experiences.