Beaujolais Wine

Guide Note

Beaujolais is a region in central eastern France. The region produces a variety of red wines, mostly from the Gamay grape. The grapes have a tendency to be light with a strong acidity.

Beaujolais Nouveau is the region's most famous international wine, fermented for several weeks and released every year on the third Thursday in November, known as "Beaujolais Day."

Fast Facts

1. Usually made from Gamay grapes
2. 99% are red wines
3. Should be aged no more than 3 years
4. Third Thursday in November: Beaujolais Nouveau released
5. Beaujolais Nouveau is served chilled
6. Beaujolais Crus are typically medium bodied with a velvety texture

Beaujolais contains over 50,000 acres of vineyards, the vast majority of which produce red wine grapes. The climate is mostly temperate, though its geographic closeness to the Mediterranean Sea provides more heat than northern regions.

Many Beaujolais wines are produced on hillsides and thus may see cooler climates in winner than the low-lying vineyards.