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More than a Famous Name, Alex Foillard Makes Beautiful Beaujolais

Stylized image of Foillard bottles

For Beaujolais lovers, few names can conjure as much excitement as Foillard. From peerless holdings in Morgon and Fleurie, the family produces what are arguably the best wines in the region. Foillard wines have incredible lift and elegance with gorgeous, layers of red fruits delivered with unmistakable energy and cut. Though irresistible in their youth, Foillard’s wines age incredibly well, gaining length and silkiness over the years.

Jean Foillard has been at the helm of the family estate since 1980 and is inching toward retirement. Lucky for us, his son Alexandre is poised to take the reins of this iconic property.

Since 2016, in addition to working with his father, Alex has made two cuvées from further south in Beaujolais, from ancient vines rooted in the granite-rich terroirs of Brouilly and Côte de Brouilly. With slightly darker fruit, mouthwatering tannins, and a crunchy, earthy energy, this distinctive duo speaks clearly of the steep slopes of Brouilly while retaining the delicate, precise Foillard style.

Alex’s wines can age just like his dad’s. A few weeks ago, at a back-vintage Beaujolais dinner, the 2016 Alex Foillard Brouilly stood out even among heavy-hitting vintages from the likes of Métras, Dutraive, Roilette, and of course Jean Foillard. It was delicate and lifted, with loads of freshness and mineral cut. Glorious stuff!

We can’t wait for you to taste these delicious 2023s. You’ll see, as sure as day, that Alex is an exceptionally talented vigneron. With his unmistakable touch and pure talent, the future Chez Foillard is extremely bright. Don’t miss these.

Alex Foillard, Côte de Brouilly, 2023 $43.99
"The 2023 Côte de Brouilly comes from the base of the hill on a mixture of schist, sand and granite soils. It was raised two-thirds in concrete, one-third in barrel for nine months and bottled in August 2024. This has an open-knit bouquet with fleshy red cherry, raspberry and figgy scents. The palate is medium-bodied, clean and fresh, with light, silky tannins and a touch of sour cherry on the understated finish. Open for business already, I can imagine much of this will be drunk in its flush of youth." Neal Martin, Vinous Media

Alex Foillard, Brouilly,  2023 $43.99
"The 2023 Brouilly comes from 80- to 90-year-old vines on pure granite soils. It aged primarily in used oak with the rest in tank. This has an elegant bouquet, mixing very well-defined hints of pure red fruit, crushed stone and bergamot tea. The palate is framed by fine tannins, a keen line of acidity and sapidity. It's fresh and vibrant with a dash of black pepper on the aftertaste." Neal Martin, Vinous Media

 

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