In the granite-laced vineyards of Morgon, at the heart of Beaujolais, Domaine Marcel Lapierre has become synonymous with purity, vitality, and the natural wine movement. While the domaine was established in 1909, it was Marcel Lapierre’s radical shift in the 1980s that defined its modern identity—eschewing chemical inputs and embracing a return to the old ways, where the vineyard dictated the rhythm and the cellar offered a gentle hand.

Marcel’s transformation was deeply influenced by Jules Chauvet, the microbiologist and winemaker often credited as the father of natural wine. From their collaboration emerged a philosophy rooted in organic farming, spontaneous fermentation, and minimal intervention—long before such practices became widespread. Under Marcel’s stewardship, the wines of Beaujolais were redefined: less manipulated, more expressive, and unmistakably alive.

The estate now spans 18 hectares of old-vine Gamay, with parcels concentrated in Morgon, including the prized Côte du Py. Vines average 60 years of age and are grown without synthetic chemicals. Soils, composed primarily of decomposed granite, bring a distinctive tension and mineral lift to the wines. Harvesting is done by hand, and great care is taken to preserve the integrity of each cluster.

In the cellar, semi-carbonic maceration is employed—a regional hallmark that enhances freshness while preserving varietal character. No cultured yeasts are used, and sulfur is applied sparingly or not at all, depending on the cuvée. This restraint yields wines of clarity and soul, guided by nature rather than shaped by force.

The flagship Morgon is vibrant yet structured, with aromas of red berries, crushed stone, and violets. “Cuvée Camille,” named for Marcel’s daughter, offers a more concentrated expression from the Côte du Py. “Cuvée Marcel Lapierre,” produced from the estate’s oldest vines, is bottled only in select vintages and stands as a tribute to the man who helped reshape modern Beaujolais.

Following Marcel’s passing in 2010, his children, Mathieu and Camille, took up the mantle. Their stewardship has preserved the domaine’s founding principles while continuing to refine its vision.

Domaine Marcel Lapierre remains a benchmark for authenticity—a place where Gamay finds its most vivid voice, and where natural winemaking is practiced not as fashion, but as philosophy.