Vineyard and winemaking
Le Plateau is a parcel selection of old Gamay vines in the heart of the Les Charmes climat of Morgon, facing Château Grange Cochard. The higher position and weathered granite-rich soils provide drainage and low fertility, concentrating the fruit while preserving the freshness and mineral character associated with cru Beaujolais.
The grapes were harvested by hand and vinified through traditional semi-carbonic maceration. Twelve months in a combination of neutral oak and stainless steel added texture without covering the perfume of Gamay, allowing the old vines and the warm 2020 vintage to show both density and precision.
Tasting notes
Appearance
Deep ruby with vivid purple and garnet reflections.
Nose
Black cherry, blackberry and wild strawberry are lifted by violet and cracked pepper. Notes of liquorice, crushed stone and a faint savoury herb character develop with air.
Palate
Full and structured for Gamay, with ripe dark fruit set against energetic acidity and fine, firm tannins. The wine remains smooth through the middle, finishing long with cherry stone, spice and granite-like minerality.
Food pairing
Serve with roast pork belly and black pudding, grilled lamb cutlets, coq au vin, or a mushroom and lentil cottage pie. Its fruit and freshness also suit a British charcuterie board.
Background story
Château Grange Cochard is a family-run Morgon estate committed to sustainable vineyard work and a measured cellar approach. Its wines focus on individual parcels, using older vines and restrained élevage to show the distinct faces of this structured Beaujolais cru.
Le Plateau is among the estate’s most concentrated selections, drawn from an elevated old-vine site within Les Charmes. The 2020 captures Morgon’s capacity to be both immediately fragrant and capable of developing more savoury, Burgundy-like complexity with time.
