Marcel Lapierre Estate – The Soul of Natural Wine in Beaujolais

A Legendary and Visionary Estate

The Marcel Lapierre Estate is a cornerstone of Beaujolais and a driving force behind the natural wine movement. Founded in Villié-Morgon, this family-run estate became a global benchmark thanks to Marcel Lapierre, a key figure in Beaujolais’ revival during the 1980s. Inspired by Jules Chauvet, he adopted a radical philosophy: chemical-free viticulture, sulfur-free winemaking, and an uncompromising focus on pure fruit expression. Today, his son Mathieu Lapierre and daughter Camille Lapierre continue this legacy with passion and precision.

An Exceptional Terroir in the Heart of Morgon

The estate spans 18 hectares, primarily within the Morgon appellation, one of Beaujolais’ most renowned crus. The granite-rich soils, composed of sand and minerals, give the wines remarkable tension and depth. Every vineyard is farmed using organic and biodynamic methods, though not certified, to maintain the vines’ natural balance and enhance grape complexity. This unique terroir produces cuvées with elegance and exceptional aging potential.

A Pure and Uncompromising Winemaking Approach

At Marcel Lapierre Estate, winemaking follows a strict yet natural approach. All grapes are hand-harvested, with careful sorting to keep only the healthiest and ripest fruit. Fermentations occur with native yeasts, and sulfur use is either eliminated or kept to an absolute minimum. The estate employs semi-carbonic maceration, a traditional Beaujolais technique that preserves Gamay’s vibrant fruit and freshness. Aging takes place in tanks or barrels, refining textures while maintaining the wine’s pure expression.

Wines of Exceptional Purity and Energy

The wines of Marcel Lapierre Estate are celebrated for their freshness, approachability, and drinkability. The Morgon, the estate’s flagship wine, bursts with aromas of cherry, raspberry, and violets, offering a silky mouthfeel and deep mineral undertones. With age, it evolves into complex notes of forest floor and spice. Special cuvées like Morgon Cuvée N, made from old vines, showcase greater concentration and remarkable longevity.

Marcel Lapierre Estate, a Cult Name in Beaujolais

Through its commitment to authentic, living wines, Marcel Lapierre Estate has inspired generations of winemakers and captivated wine lovers worldwide. Found on the finest wine lists and in the cellars of true enthusiasts, these wines are synonymous with purity, pleasure, and tradition. Tasting a Marcel Lapierre wine is an invitation to experience the essence of Beaujolais: a Gamay that is pure, vibrant, and timeless.