2000 Marcel Lapierre Morgon
Hearing of the untimely passing of Marcel Lapierre, I chose to open this to toast to great memories of his past wines I've opened.
A nice ruby color in the glass - not youthful, but no signs of amber at the edge.
Nose of dark fruits - mostly black cherry, but seemingly with a bit of mulberry and black raspberry along with spicy herbs and perhaps a woodsy-brambly-earthy note (fresh mushrooms and ripe stems if there is such a thing) lending nice complexity and interest. It is very "Gamay," but yet so much more.
Once on the palate, it satisfies. Wonderful flavors of medium-bodied fruit intensity that glides across the tongue (flavors matching the nose). A good lift of acidity keeps it lively across the palate and, perhaps a smidge of tannins still in the mix. The wine blossoms as it airs and warms from cellar temperature.
The finish is satisfying as well, with nice beam of fruit lingering a bit once swallowed.
A ton of gunk at the bottom of the bottle . . . .
A wine which would be best with dinner - perhaps roast chicken and simple mixed vegetables on the side. (I opened this well before I was ready to have dinner.) This is drinking very well right now (for my palate), so if you're like me and still have any, get to it!
Sad news of Mr. Lapierre's passing, but it is a fitting legacy that his wonderful wines such as this one will live on. Glad I have a few more to enjoy.
Tasted 10/12/2010.
Thanks for reading.