Jean Foillard’s Beaujolais: A Rising Star in Wine Auctions

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Discover how Jean Foillard's organic Beaujolais wines are thriving in the secondary market, proving their age-worthiness and unique character.

Introduction to Beaujolais’ Renaissance

Beaujolais has long been a region celebrated for its organic, biodynamic, and natural winemaking techniques. These methods have not only gained popularity but have also positioned the region as a significant player in the wine auction market. While many might associate Beaujolais primarily with the youthful Beaujolais Nouveau, savvy connoisseurs are increasingly recognizing the depth and complexity of wines from the ten cru areas of this French wine region. In particular, the work of winemaker Jean Foillard has put a spotlight on mature Beaujolais wines that excel in both quality and auction value.

The Legacy of Jean Foillard

Jean Foillard, an influential figure in modern Beaujolais winemaking, took over his family estate in 1981. Initially covering just four hectares, it has since expanded to 23 hectares across various appellations, including Fleurie and Morgon. Foillard’s commitment to organic practices is evident; about 80% of his vineyard is cultivated without synthetic herbicides or pesticides. Instead, he utilizes natural compost and encourages biodiversity by allowing native plants to flourish among the vines.

Foillard’s approach is rooted in tradition. He employs semicarbonic maceration for fermentation, which captures the essence of Gamay grapes while producing distinctive flavors reminiscent of cherry and cinnamon. The wines are aged in large oak barrels for seven to nine months before bottling without filtration, ensuring that they retain their living qualities.

Auction Performance of Morgon 3.14

Among Foillard’s acclaimed offerings is Morgon 3.14, a flagship wine crafted only during exceptional vintages from grapes grown on Côte du Py plots. This wine is characterized by its intense fruit aromas—think black cherry, raspberry, and hints of violets—along with a structured palate that promises longevity. Notably, Morgon 3.14 can age gracefully for up to 15 years, making it a desirable choice for collectors.

In recent auction updates from iDealwine—the leading French wine auction house—Morgon 3.14 reached unprecedented values in 2023 despite a general decline in Beaujolais prices. A bottle from the esteemed 2005 vintage sold for €275, showcasing not only its desirability but also dispelling myths surrounding Beaujolais’ aging potential.

The Market Trends: A Shift Towards Mature Wines

The secondary market for mature wines from Beaujolais is evolving rapidly. With data revealing that certain vintages like the 2005 Morgon have increased by nearly 138% over five years, collectors are beginning to appreciate these wines not just for immediate enjoyment but as valuable assets. Additionally, vintages such as 2009, which recently fetched prices between €212 and €254 at auction, further highlight this trend.

Interestingly, younger vintages like those from 2017 are also making appearances on auction platforms; however, it’s clear that older bottles command higher interest and value due to their proven aging capabilities.

Conclusion: Embracing Beaujolais’ Future

As we look ahead, it’s evident that Jean Foillard’s influence is paving the way for future generations of winemakers committed to sustainable practices while creating exceptional wines worthy of both enjoyment and investment. The rise of mature Beaujolais wines on the secondary market not only reflects changing consumer preferences but also reinforces the notion that great wine can indeed improve with age.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to exploring natural wines, keep an eye on what Beaujolais has to offer—it’s more than just Nouveau! With figures like Foillard at the helm and growing recognition within the industry, expect this region to continue rising in prominence.

Photo by monica di loxley on Unsplash