Laurent Delaunay Les Grappillages Morgon 2023 Review

Takeaway

A playful nose meets a serious sip in this Morgon Gamay. It is approachable enough for new red wine drinkers but layered enough to keep enthusiasts coming back.

First Thought

Colin brought this week’s bottle, the Laurent Delaunay Les Grappillages Morgon Gamay. At around twenty to twenty five dollars, it sits a tier above the Beaujolais wines we have tried before from the same producer. Colin picked it partly because Florida heat is creeping into the nineties, and chilled reds are perfect for summer. He also admitted he has not had a Gamay he truly loved in years, even though it was once his favorite grape. This felt like a chance to reconnect with an old love and maybe find the wine that brings him back around.

Tasting NOtes

On the nose, the wine bursts with candied cherry, cherry soda, and even a hint of bubblegum which points to carbonic maceration. But the palate flips the script. Instead of candy, the sip leans into deeper fruit, more strawberry than cherry, with a surprising grip from the tannins and a touch of earthy minerality. The contrast between nose and palate kept everyone engaged, and with time in the glass the candied edge mellowed into a more balanced expression.

Quick Tasting Notes

• Candied cherry and cherry soda on the nose
• Bubblegum hint
• Strawberry and red fruit on the palate
• Graphite like minerality
• Medium tannin grip
• Fresh acidity that keeps it lively

Highlights

Why It’s Special
It bridges two sides of Gamay. The nose is playful while the palate is more serious and structured. That gap makes it a fun wine to explore.

When to Pour It
A great choice for someone just starting with red wine. It avoids the heavy tannin punch of Cabernet Sauvignon while still offering structure and depth.

Food Match
Versatile enough to sip on its own, but would shine with charcuterie, roasted chicken, or lighter grilled dishes.

Final Verdict

• Joel – A Must Share: Joel loved the versatility. He called it a wine that works both with food and on its own, standing out as a lively, talk worthy bottle.
• Aaron – A Must Share (after warming up to it): Aaron admitted he did not love the first sips, but the wine opened up and grew on him. By the end, he was fully on board, impressed by the structure and balance.
• Colin – A Must Share: Colin enjoyed it more than the last few Gamays he has tried and appreciated its surprising tannin and overall quality. While he may not rush to put it in his wine fridge, he was clear that it belongs in the must share category.

Group Consensus: Laurent Delaunay Les Grappillages Morgon is a clear Must Share. It may not win everyone over immediately, but given time in the glass, it proves to be a rewarding bottle worth exploring with friends.

And as always Stop Wasting Your Wine!