Jeff Carrel’s Morillon 2022 review and tasting notes
Basic Information
Producer: Jeff Carrel
Vintage: 2022
Region: Leuc, between Carcassonne and Limoux
Grape Variety: Chardonnay with botrytized grapes
Terroir: Mixture of quartz pebbles, quartzites, granulite, limestone, and ancient silt
Harvest: 80% botrytized grapes
Vinification: De-stemming, direct pressing, natural fermentation without temperature control (22-28°C), malolactic fermentation in barrels
Aging: 11 months on lees in barrels
Price: 18 $.
Aromatic and Flavor Profile
This wine glows with a radiant golden hue, emitting expressive olfactory notes of syrupy pear, pineapple, and sweet spices. On the palate, it is round, expansive, and almost unctuous, filling the mouth with ripe, velvety flavors. The aromatic spectrum is dominated by white fruits cooked in butter, caramel, and toasty/grilled notes. A faint effervescence, accompanied by a touch of candied citrus, adds a welcome freshness to the experience.
Production Method
This wine stands as a typical “culinary” oenological experiment by producer Jeff Carrel. Made from Chardonnay grapes affected by botrytis, the vinification aims to keep a “tender” residual sugar level (between 10 and 20 g/l depending on the vintage). Aging on lees in barrels for 11 months imparts a slightly oxidative character to the wine, enriched by aromas of raisins, quince paste, caramel, and orange peel.
Recommended Pairings
This wine is an ideal match for grape terrines, spicy dishes, cheeses from the Jura region, scallops, and sautéed apples. It also serves as a delightful aperitif.
Conclusion and Tasting Notes
Morillon 2022 is a wine with a unique personality and complex profile. Although sweet, its residual sugars are discreet and balanced by a subtle citric acidity. The finish is both tonic and concentrated, encapsulating all the preceding elements in a denser, more succulent form. This wine not only delights the palate but also stimulates enological interest, representing a real adventure for wine lovers.
