Beajolais Flashcards
What is the primary grape variety of Beaujolais?
Gamay (specifically, Gamay Noir à Jus Blanc)
What are the 3 main quality levels of Beaujolais AOC?
- Beaujolais
- Beaujolais-Villages
- Beaujolais Crus (10 named crus)
What type of soil is predominant in the northern Beaujolais crus?
Granite and schist, ideal for Gamay
What style of winemaking is commonly associated with Beaujolais?
Semi-carbonic maceration (particularly in Nouveau and Villages)
What is Beaujolais Nouveau and when is it released?
A young, fruity wine released the third Thursday in November, just weeks after harvest
Which Beaujolais Cru is known for being the most age-worthy and structured?
Morgon (especially from the Côte du Py)
Which Cru is often considered the most delicate and Burgundy-like in style?
Fleurie – known for floral aromatics and finesse
What is the southern part of Beaujolais primarily composed of geologically?
Clay and limestone soils—less suitable for high-quality Gamay
Which Cru is the smallest in area?
Chénas – also the rarest of the crus
What is the name of the granite hill that is central to Moulin-à-Vent’s terroir?
Rochegrès
Which Beaujolais Cru is often said to rival Pinot Noir in complexity and aging ability?
Moulin-à-Vent
Which Cru is known for light, easy-drinking wines and early approachability?
Brouilly (and also Régnié to some extent)
What Cru surrounds the dormant volcano Mont Brouilly?
Côte de Brouilly – more structured and mineral than Brouilly
What viticultural technique helps preserve freshness in Gamay?
Bush-trained vines (gobelet) and harvesting at optimal ripeness
Which Cru is the most southerly?
Brouilly
What is the only white wine permitted under the Beaujolais AOC?
Beaujolais Blanc – made from Chardonnay
Which Cru is known for spicy, wild berry–driven wines and sits at higher altitude?
Chiroubles
Name three producers known for elevating Beaujolais Cru to serious wine status.
- Jean Foillard (Morgon)
- Marcel Lapierre (Morgon)
- Yvon Métras (Fleurie)
What is the main fermentation vessel used in traditional Beaujolais Nouveau production?
Cement or stainless steel vats (for cool fermentation and carbonic maceration)
What Beaujolais Crus are considered best for aging?
- Morgon
- Moulin-à-Vent
- Côte de Brouilly
