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 wine region , surrounding Le Bois d’Oingt, which extends northward toward Villefranche in a strip running along the Saône River as far as La Chapelle-de-Guinchay. Thus, a total of 72 municipalities produce Beaujolais.

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

Beaujolais Nouveau is the early-release wine produced in the Beaujolais or Beaujolais-Villages AOC region, which is authorized for sale immediately upon completion of vinification. It goes on sale worldwide on the third Thursday of November. Beaujolais Nouveau is not a wine meant for aging. These wines generally have a short shelf life, about 6 months.

After the primeurs, Beaujolais wines wait until spring to reveal their fruity flavors and freshness, perfect for celebrating the return of warmer weather. You can count on the quality of wines guaranteed by certain producers such as Domaine des Terres Dorées, Domaine du Vissoux, Maison Coquard, or the must-try Château des Jacques.

Finally, the Beaujolais-Villages Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) has been a recognized regional appellation since 1950. In fact, it was the first appellation in France to use the term “villages.” Its vineyards cover approximately 6,200 hectares and encompass the 38 communes that are entitled to use the Beaujolais-Villages appellation due to the unique characteristics of their terroir.