Jean FoillardProducer from Beaujolais, France

The wines of Jean Foillard's have gained a cult following for producing age-worth, structures Beaujolais that transcend regional norms. His winery's history dates back to 1981 when he took over his father's domaine. Foillard's commitment to traditional winemaking techniques and sustainable viticulture has earned him a well-deserved reputation as one of the leading producers in the region. Widely recognized for his Morgon wines, Foillard's approach focuses on showcasing the authenticity and purity of the terroir. He has been instrumental in shaping the natural wine movement in Beaujolais and is one of the founding members of the "Gang of Four," a group of winemakers who revolutionized the region's winemaking practices.

Wine critics have praised Foillard's wines, recognizing their exceptional quality and character. Renowned wine writer, Jancis Robinson, describes Foillard's wines as "truly remarkable" and "exemplary," highlighting their balance and finesse. Wine critic, Robert Parker, has referred to Foillard as a "great artisanal vigneron" and considers his wines as "the reference point" for natural Beaujolais.

Foillard's wines have achieved a cult following among enthusiasts and collectors. The Morgon Côte du Py, in particular, has garnered immense admiration for its age-worthiness and superb expression of the terroir. 

"Foillard's Morgon Côte du Py is a wine that transcends Beaujolais and stands toe-to-toe with some of Burgundy's finest reds." - Neal Martin

The Beaujolais Gang of Four:

The Gang of Four consisted of Jean Foillard, Marcel Lapierre, Jean-Paul Thévenet, and Guy Breton. They all shared the philosophy of producing natural wines without the use of chemicals and only using indigenous yeasts. They believed that the Beaujolais region, known for producing cheap, mass-produced wines, had the potential to create high-quality wines that would rival the best in the world.

Their methods involved organic farming, hand-harvesting, and whole-cluster fermentation, resulting in wines that were light, fresh, and acidic, with minimal tannins. The Gang of Four's style of winemaking became known as "natural wine" and their influence not only shaped the Beaujolais region but the entire wine industry.

Foillard's Morgon Côte du Py:

Foillard's Morgon Côte du Py has gained a cult following for its exceptional quality and age-worthiness. Made from old Gamay vines planted on volcanic slopes, this wine showcases the unique characteristics of the Morgon appellation in Beaujolais. Crafted using natural winemaking practices, it undergoes whole-cluster fermentation and only uses indigenous yeasts. The result is a wine of remarkable balance and finesse, with ripe red fruit aromas, floral notes, and subtle mineral and spice undertones. It captivates with its vibrant palate, silky tannins, and a long, lingering finish. Many wine enthusiasts choose to cellar this wine, allowing it to evolve and develop further with age. Its consistent quality and ability to age gracefully have made it a sought-after gem among collectors. Foillard's Morgon Côte du Py is not just a wine; it helped put Beaujolais back on the fine wine scene.