The Joy of Gamay and it’s Wines!
Darlings, how familiar are you with Beaujolais?
Every third Thursday of November, wine lovers worldwide celebrate the arrival of Beaujolais Nouveau. This festive tradition offers the first taste of the year’s harvest, with a fresh and fruity wine designed for immediate enjoyment.
However, Beaujolais is far more than its Nouveau wines. With its rich history, diverse appellations, and the charm of Gamay, Beaujolais is a region that deserves your attention.
Where is Beaujolais?
Located in eastern France, south of Burgundy, the Beaujolais region spans picturesque hills, granite soils, and a moderate climate—perfect for cultivating Gamay.
Beaujolais features 12 appellations:
10 crus, the top-tier wines known for their distinct personalities.
Beaujolais-Villages, offering high-quality wines at approachable prices.
Beaujolais AOC, entry-level wines, easy-drinking styles.
Gamay: The Star of Beaujolais
The soul of Beaujolais lies in Gamay, a grape variety prized for its vibrant red fruit flavours, bright acidity, and soft tannins. It accounts for 98% of the vineyards, producing wines bursting with notes of strawberries, cherries, and raspberries.
While Gamay dominates, Chardonnay represents 2% of production and is used to craft Beaujolais Blanc, a hidden gem that’s gaining recognition for its fresh and aromatic profile.
What is Beaujolais Nouveau?
Beaujolais Nouveau is celebrated every third Thursday of November. It’s a festive tradition that marks the release of the first wine of the harvest. This youthful, fruity wine is fresh, lively, and easy to enjoy, making it perfect for casual sipping and festive gatherings.
The secret to Beaujolais Nouveau’s vibrant profile lies in carbonic maceration, a winemaking technique that enhances its juicy red berry flavors while keeping tannins soft. The wine boasts notes of strawberries, raspberries, and even a playful hint of banana, capturing the festive and lively essence of the region’s star grape, Gamay.
The 10 Crus of Beaujolais
For those looking to explore Beaujolais in depth, the 10 crus represent the pinnacle of the region. These wines showcase Gamay’s versatility, offering styles ranging from light and floral to rich and structured.
Light and Fruit Forward
Saint-Amour: Famous for its fruit-forward, light, and easy-drinking wines, dominated by bright red fruit flavours. A perfect introduction to Beaujolais.
Chiroubles: Fresh and light with crisp acidity, wines are best enjoyed young, making them ideal for early drinking and lighter fare.
Brouilly: The largest cru, covering 20% of the Beaujolais region. Brouilly offers vibrant berry notes, creating easy-drinking wines for any occasion.
Medium-Bodied and Aromatic
Fleurie: Known for its delicate, feminine charm. Fleurie showcases floral aromas of violets and rose petals, paired with soft red fruit flavours.
Juliénas: Bold and structured, with dark berry notes, violets, and hints of baking spice. It balances vibrant acidity with grippy tannins, perfect for hearty dishes.
Régnié: The youngest of the 10 crus. Régnié is lively and bright, offering juicy red fruit flavours with a playful, approachable character.
Complex and Bolder
Chénas: The smallest cru, offering full-bodied wines with bold flavours of spice, dark fruits, and floral undertones. Fierce and memorable.
Morgon: The second-largest cru, known for its meaty, rich wines with cherry, plum, and earthy notes like iron and wet stone. A classic choice for aging.
Côte de Brouilly: Grown on volcanic slopes, this cru offers refined, cellar-friendly wines with flavors of dark berries, wet stones, and an elegant structure.
Moulin-à-Vent: Often called the “King of Beaujolais,” this cru is renowned for its age-worthy, complex wines, showcasing dark fruit, spice, and powerful tannins.
These crus offer something for every palate, from the elegance of Fleurie to the power of Morgon.
Beaujolais Blanc: The Rare White Wine
While red wines dominate, Beaujolais Blanc is a delightful surprise. Made from Chardonnay, it is produced in the Beaujolais AOC and Beaujolais-Villages appellations.
Beaujolais Blanc is known for its aromatic profile, featuring citrus, white flowers, and a touch of minerality. It’s perfect for those who enjoy fresh, vibrant white wines and pairs beautifully with seafood and creamy dishes.
Why Beaujolais is Perfect for Your Holiday Table
Thanks to Gamay’s juicy fruit, bright acidity, and supple tannins, Beaujolais wines are incredibly food-friendly, effortlessly enhancing a variety of dishes. From roasted meats to rich and creamy sauces, Beaujolais pairs seamlessly with both casual and festive meals.
Below are a few pairing recommendations to consider for adding Beaujolais to your holiday menu.
Modern Trends and Sustainability
In recent years, Beaujolais has embraced modern trends, with many producers focusing on organic and sustainable viticulture. This approach has revitalized the region, especially among small, independent winemakers crafting high-quality, terroir-driven wines.
Why Beaujolais Deserves Your Attention
Beaujolais is a region full of surprises. From the playful charm of Beaujolais Nouveau to the refined elegance of the crus, it offers a wide range of wines for every occasion.
Gamay, once overshadowed by more famous varieties, has proven its worth with wines that are vibrant, versatile, and endlessly enjoyable. Whether you’re new to wine or a seasoned enthusiast, Beaujolais has something to offer.
So, why not explore this fascinating region?
Raise a glass of Beaujolais Nouveau to celebrate the harvest, savour the depth of a cru, or discover the aromatic beauty of Beaujolais Blanc. Each sip is a celebration of the artistry and joy of winemaking.
Cheers to Beaujolais and the magic of Gamay! 🍷