Beaujolais

Question 1

What are the main characteristics of Gamay?

Answer 1

1. Early budding and ripening

2. If not well managed, can produce high yields = lower quality wines

Question 2

What is the climate in Beaujolais?

Answer 2

Similar to southern Maconnais

Question 3

Where are the best Gamay grapes grown in Beaujolais (soils)?

Answer 3

Granite soils with low levels of nutrients to limit yields and concentrate flavors

Question 4

Where are the best Gamay grapes planted in Beaujolais (soils)?

Answer 4

On granite soils with low levels of nutrients = limits yields and concentrates flavors

Question 5

What is the traditional pruning method in Beaujolais?

Answer 5

Gobelet pruning

Question 6

Describe a wine made from Gamay

Answer 6

Fragant with raspberries and cherry fruit
Medium levels of tannins and body

Lightest styles can be served slightly chilled

Question 7

What are the 2 main winemaking techniques used in Beaujolais AOC?

Answer 7

Carbonic maceration and semi-carbonic maceration

Question 8

What is the hierarchy of appellations in Beaujolais?

Answer 8

1. Beaujolais and Beaujolais Nouveau
2. Beaujolais Villages
3. Beaujolais Crus

Question 9

How many Beaujolais crus are there?

Answer 9

10 villages

Question 10

What are the 4 most well known beaujolais crus?

Answer 10

1. Morgon
2. Fleurie
3. Brouilly
4. Moulin-à-vent

Question 11

What are the differences in the wines produced in Morgon, Moulin-à-vent, Fleurie and Brouilly?

Answer 11

1. Morgon and Moulin-à-vent (think M like Masculine)
   - Structured with enough fruit concentration and tannins to benefit from bottle ageing
2. Brouilly and Fleurie (think F like Feminine)
   - lighter, more perfumed styles