Beaujolais
Tasting Notes
Beaujolais is made from the Gamay grape and is defined by vivid, high‑tone fruit and floral lift. The Gamay grape has a rich history dating back to the 14th century Burgundy region in France marked by cultivation bans and a resurgence in popularity.
🎯 Overall Character - Beaujolais wine is silky, with subtle tannins, bright mouthwatering acidity and with low alcohol levels typically around 10–11.5% ABV. No need to decant; best served slightly cool (12–15°C).
🌸 On the Nose (Aromatics) - Pomegranate, blackberry, bramble, violet, light floral perfume and banana (especially in Nouveau or wines made with full carbonic maceration). Subtle earthy tones sometimes present.
🍒 On the Palate - Beaujolais is a dry wine, light to medium body, low in tannin and medium to high in acidity. This gives the wine its signature juicy, refreshing, fruit‑forward character.
🗺️ Style Range by Category:
Beaujolais / Beaujolais Nouveau is light, fresh, with notes of red fruit candy, banana, bubblegum (from carbonic maceration). It is meant for early drinking.
Beaujolais‑Villages has more depth and minerality with notes of cherry, raspberry, and floral notes. Still easy‑drinking but more structured
🕰️ Aging Profile - Beaujolais wines are typically consumed within a few months to a year after vintage. They are designed to be consumed as young wines to take advantage of their juicy, refreshing fruit forward character. CRU Beaujolais which is more complex does have aging potential of 3-5 years
Food Pairing
One of the most food versatile red wines with dishes that are salty, herbal, lightly fatty, or subtly earthy.
🥓 Charcuterie & Appetizers - Pairs well with Pâté en croûte, thin‑sliced ham, and many Charcuterie boards.
🍗 Poultry & Light Meats - Ideal pairings include Roast chicken, Duck and Grilled white meats (Chicken, Turkey).
Gamay’s acidity cuts through fat without overwhelming delicate flavors.
🐖 Pork & Game (Light) - Slow‑cooked rabbit, pork dishes with herbs or light sauces and calf liver (surprisingly excellent with Fleurie).
🍣 Sushi & Asian Cuisine - Beaujolais’ freshness and fruitiness pair beautifully with sushi and Thai dishes.
🧀 Cheese - Pairs well with Comté, Beaufort, Gruyère, Emmental, and soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert (especially with Nouveau).
Poultry
Pork Dishes
Sushi
Comte and soft cheeses