Region · Beaujolais, France
Beaujolais
boh-zhuh-LAY
Granite, Gamay, and a second act
South of Burgundy, not beneath it. Ten crus, a sea of Nouveau, and some of France's most joyful reds.
- red cherry
- peony
- granite
- pepper
- banana
Nouveau is carbonic, released the third Thursday of November, and a party. The crus — Fleurie, Morgon, Moulin-à-Vent, Juliénas, Côte de Brouilly, and the rest — are site wines that can age. Morgon 'tastes of Morgon' more than of banana.
Granite in the north, clay further south. Whole-cluster and traditional Burgundian vinification both have a home. Serve cool.
Charcuterie, roast chicken, and a slightly chilled bottle. Beaujolais is a lunch region.
At the table
Service
52–57 °F (11–14 °C).
