Beaujolais

The Beaujolais appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) is a regional appellation that has been recognized since 1937. Its vineyards cover approximately 8,900 hectares spread across two distinct geographical areas: the southern part of the Beaujolais vineyards , surrounding Le Bois d'Oingt, which extends northwards towards Villefranche, forming a ribbon that skirts the Saône River as far as La Chapelle-de-Guinchay. In total, 72 communes produce Beaujolais wine.

In the southern part of the Beaujolais vineyard, the soils are clay-limestone, dating from the Mesozoic era. Further north, the soils consist of alluvial deposits from the Tertiary and Quaternary periods. The only grape variety used is, of course, Gamay noir à jus blanc.

Beaujolais Nouveau is the primeur wine produced in the Beaujolais or Beaujolais-Villages AOC region, which can be sold immediately after vinification. It goes on sale worldwide on the third Thursday of November. Beaujolais Nouveau is not a wine for aging. These wines generally have a short shelf life of around six months.

After the primeurs, Beaujolais wines wait until spring to deliver their fruity flavors and freshness, ideal for celebrating the return of sunny days. You can count on the quality of wines guaranteed by certain producers such as Domaine des Terres Dorées, Domaine du Vissoux, Maison Coquard, and the unmissable Château des Jacques.

Finally, the Beaujolais-Villages appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) has been a recognized regional appellation since 1950. It was also the first appellation in France to use the term "villages." Its vineyards cover approximately 6,200 hectares and include the 38 communes that are entitled to use the Beaujolais-Villages appellation due to the specific characteristics of their terroir.