Coq Léon 2023, Dominique Piron

A vibrant and expressive blend of 95% Gamay and 5% Gamaret—a lesser-known varietal developed in the 1990s by crossing Gamay with Reichensteiner. On the nose, it bursts with bright red fruit aromas, including ripe strawberries, crushed raspberries, and juicy cherries, complemented by subtle floral notes of violets and a touch of spice. The palate is fresh and lively, with a smooth, medium-bodied texture that showcases the Gamay grape's characteristic fruitiness alongside the deeper, darker undertones imparted by Gamaret. Hints of blackberries and plums mingle with a delicate earthiness, while soft tannins and a refreshing acidity create a balanced and easy-drinking profile. The finish is clean and slightly peppery, leaving behind a lingering impression of juicy red fruit and a hint of minerality. Perfect for casual sipping or pairing with charcuterie, roast chicken, and grilled vegetables, Coq Léon is celebrated for its unpretentious, delicious nature, making it an ideal companion for hearty, casual meals. The wine embodies a "glou glou" style—a French term denoting an easy-drinking, gulpable wine—emphasizing its approachability and food-friendly qualities.

About the Winery

Nestled in the heart of Villié-Morgon, Beaujolais, lies Maison Piron, a winery whose legacy spans over four centuries. The Piron family's vinous journey began with Etienne Bailly, born around 1590 during the reign of King Henry III. Since then, 14 generations have meticulously cultivated the Gamay grape, embedding their passion and expertise into the terroirs of Beaujolais. 

Dominique Piron, the current steward of this rich heritage, took the helm in 1971. Under his guidance, the estate has flourished, encompassing 45 hectares of vineyards spread across esteemed crus such as Morgon, Chénas, Brouilly, Régnié, and Moulin-à-Vent. Dominique's philosophy centers on crafting wines that are fruity, subtle, and elegant, reflecting the unique character of each terroir. 

In the vineyards, Maison Piron practices sustainable farming, with a keen interest in organic methods to promote biodiversity. The soils, predominantly granite-based, provide an ideal foundation for the Gamay grape. Yields are carefully managed, averaging between 45 and 50 hectoliters per hectare, ensuring quality and concentration in the fruit. 

When it comes to winemaking, Dominique Piron honors traditional Beaujolais techniques. Whole-cluster fermentations are employed whenever possible, with shorter maceration periods for Beaujolais and Beaujolais-Villages to achieve a light, buoyant texture. Aging occurs in neutral foudres and old barrels, allowing the purity of the grape and its terroir to shine through without the influence of new oak. 

An interesting facet of Maison Piron's approach is their commitment to preserving the natural ecosystem. They plant grass, flowers, shrubs, and bushes in and around their vineyards to maintain ecological balance, believing that many viticultural challenges can be addressed through harmony with nature and prudent vine-growing techniques. 

Dominique Piron's dedication to his craft has been instrumental in the revival of Morgon, one of Beaujolais' ten crus. His wines are celebrated for their extraordinary depth, freshness, and verve, with distinct expressions across the various crus. Notably, Morgon wines from Maison Piron are racy and elegant, often exhibiting hints of black cherry, bright spicy notes, and a structure that lends them excellent aging potential. 

Through centuries of dedication and a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, Maison Piron continues to craft wines that are not only a testament to the rich heritage of the Piron family but also a vibrant expression of the Beaujolais terroir.