🍇 Villié-Morgon — At the Heart of Beaujolais

The Beaujolais hills unfold like a watercolor — rows of vines brushing the horizon in soft golds and greens, dotted with stone villages and bell towers that have watched the harvest for centuries.

This is the land of Gamay, a grape that thrives on sunlight and generosity. From these slopes come wines that are bright yet soulful, full of cherries, violets, and the minerality of granite and volcanic earth. Ten crus form the proud spine of the region, each with its own accent. And at the very heart of them lies Villié-Morgon — a village that feels both timeless and alive.

It’s here that I began my Beaujolais journey, in a place where the scent of fermenting grapes mingles with woodsmoke and the laughter of the harvest.

Morning in Villié-Morgon

Villié-Morgon is small enough to cross in a morning walk, yet it never feels quiet. The cobbled square hums with life — cafés opening their shutters, cyclists gliding past on their way to tastings, the church bells marking the rhythm of the day.

The locals take pride in their welcome; a simple bonjour opens doors to conversation and perhaps a glass poured before noon. I stopped at Café du Centre, where the day’s chalkboard menu offered a slice of tarte aux oignons and a carafe of Morgon that tasted like the sunshine outside.

It’s easy to see why winemakers, chefs, and artists are drawn here — everything happens at a human pace, and inspiration feels as natural as breathing.

Wine Moment

Morgon is the cru that gives Villié-Morgon its name and soul. Its vineyards climb the Côte du Py, a volcanic hill whose soils lend the wines both depth and character.

Unlike Beaujolais Nouveau — the region’s playful early release — Morgon wines are meant to linger. They are fuller, rounder, capable of ageing gracefully for years. When young, they sing of ripe cherries and violets; with time, they gain notes of truffle, spice, and even a whisper of dried rose.

Locals often pair Morgon with duck confit, roasted mushrooms, or Saint-Marcellin cheese. My favorite moment was tasting a Morgon Côte du Py 2021 — a vintage that balances the depth of Beaujolais with the brightness of its youth. The kind of wine that feels alive in the glass, unfolding with every sip.

Where to Stay and Wander

For a night or two, book a bed-and-breakfast in the village — many are family homes turned charming guesthouses. Mornings begin with the scent of coffee and the sound of the church bell echoing over the vines.

From Villié-Morgon, it’s easy to explore neighboring crus: Fleurie, known for its floral, silky wines; or Chiroubles, perched high above the valley with panoramic views that seem to go on forever.

Pack a light scarf, comfortable shoes, and an appetite for wandering — every path here leads to something delicious.

Savoring the Vineyards Around Villié-Morgon

If you follow the narrow lanes that wind out of the village, you’ll find tasting rooms tucked behind old stone walls:

• Château de Pizay — A fairytale estate where you can walk through manicured gardens before a guided tasting. Their Morgon Côte du Py is both elegant and robust.
• Domaine des Nugues — Friendly and family-run, offering tastings that often end in laughter and a second pour.
• Domaine des Grands Cras — A hidden gem producing wines of surprising finesse. Ask to taste their “Vieilles Vignes” if available.
• Domaine de la Combe — Known for its organic approach and heartfelt hospitality; a wonderful place for an afternoon tasting on the terrace.

Most wineries welcome visitors year-round, though autumn — when the hills glow amber — is pure magic. A quick email or call ahead is usually enough to secure a visit.

Evening in the Vineyards

As evening falls, the village glows under the last wash of golden light. Winemakers step out from their cellars, glasses in hand, and children race bicycles down the narrow lanes.

I sat on a low stone wall with a half-filled glass and wrote a single line in my notebook:
“Beaujolais doesn’t ask to be admired — it simply invites you in.”

It’s the kind of place that reminds you to slow down, to listen, and to savor — both in wine and in life.

🥂 A Little Wine Note

Morgon Côte du Py 2021 — Medium-bodied with aromas of cherry, violet, and spice. Serve lightly chilled at 14 °C.
Pairings: roasted vegetables, coq au vin, aged Comté, or even dark chocolate.

📘 The Journey Continues

If you’d like to sip a little deeper into Beaujolais — from village walks in Villié-Morgon to cellar doors I adore — my Beaujolais Wine & Travel Guide arrives this spring, perfectly timed to plan your golden-autumn escape.

It’s a curated companion of tastings, maps, and gentle itineraries — everything I’ve gathered wandering these hills so you can plan with confidence (and a touch of chic).

What you’ll get:

• Smart, short winery notes (what to taste & why)
• Easy pairings for local bistros & picnics
• Scenic drives, photo stops, and slow-day ideas
• Printable maps + 2–3-day autumn itineraries

👉 Join my mailing list to be the first to receive it — plus a little bonus: my Autumn Picnic Pairings cheat-sheet.

💬 Need tips before then?

I’m happy to help in real time — 💬 Chat with Camille for quick advice on wineries, routes, and where to book. I’ll tailor suggestions to your dates and style.

Bisous,
Camille 🍷✨