INSIDER'S PICK: 2017 DOMAINE CALOT MORGON VIEILLES VIGNES (Wine Advocate 91+points) $19.99

As we always like to break down wine misconceptions, this will efficiently pull double duty for us by showing off how Beaujolais isn't too light for colder weather AND that all Beaujolais should be drunk as young as possible. Morgon has always had a place of distinction as one of the top Crus in the region, with its distinct decomposed old volcanic soils, known as 'rotten rock' in the local vernacular, and has built a reputation for producing some of the most intensive versions of the Gamay grape you will find. This bottling also has the benefit of being sourced from the family's oldest parcel, some exceeding 100 years, which further intensifies the resulting juice. Loads of bright cherry aromas at first on the nose, almost juicy initially, but slowly showing more of the gamey and higher toned red fruits that are so classically Beaujolais as it opens and evolves. The texture in the mouth is surprisingly sappy for Gamay, big on the cherry and bright red fruits on the palate with the silky tannins bringing the drier tones and savory flavors through on the finish. This is Gamay that can stand toe to toe with any basic Bourgogne Pinot Noir in terms of substance and intensity, and would wager that it's just starting to get into its peak drinking window, with an easy 5-7 years still ahead of it. An open bottle of ours still shows quite nicely even 2-3 days after being opened, which is a great sign of its potential longevity. Awesome with roasted chicken and charcuterie. 

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