Beaujolais, just south of Burgundy, is the home of Gamay — bright, juicy, low-tannin reds bursting with red fruit. It spans cheerful Beaujolais Nouveau, released weeks after harvest, to the serious, granite-grown crus like Morgon, Moulin-à-Vent and Fleurie, which can age and even resemble fine Burgundy. Fresh, food-friendly and often served lightly chilled, it is one of France's great-value joys.
Structure
| Body | Carbonic maceration gives much Beaujolais its signature bright, grapey fruit and supple texture. The ten named crus, on granite and schist hillsides, make the most structured and ageworthy wines, while Beaujolais and Beaujolais-Villages are lighter and immediate. |
|---|---|
| Acidity | High, refreshing. |
| Tannin | Low, soft and silky. |
| Finish | Bright and juicy, with red berry and a floral lift. |
| Aroma | Raspberry, cherry, banana, violet and white pepper. |
Serving: 13–15°C (55–59°F), lightly chilled. · Decanting: None for most; crus need only a brief airing.
Beaujolais drinking window
| Tier | Drinking window |
|---|---|
| Nouveau / Beaujolais | Drink within 1–2 years. |
| Beaujolais-Villages | Best 1–4 years. |
| Cru (Morgon, Moulin-à-Vent) | 3–10 years. |
| Vintage | Drinking window |
|---|---|
| 2018 | Drinking well now. |
| 2020 | Hold to 2028. |
| 2022 | Drink now to 2030. |
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Beaujolais — questions answered
What grape is Beaujolais made from?
Gamay — a light, juicy, low-tannin red grape grown on the granite hills south of Burgundy.
What is Beaujolais Nouveau?
A young wine released the third Thursday of November, just weeks after harvest, meant for immediate, fruity drinking.
Are the Beaujolais crus age-worthy?
Yes — the ten crus, especially Morgon and Moulin-à-Vent, make structured wines that can age 5–10 years.
What food pairs with Beaujolais?
Roast chicken, charcuterie, pork and mushrooms; served chilled, it's a versatile, easygoing red.