Beaujolais - WSET L3 in Wines Flashcards
What is the primary grape variety in Beaujolais?
Gamay.
What is the climate of Beaujolais?
Similar to the southern Mâconnais, with a moderate continental climate ideal for early-ripening Gamay.
What is the traditional pruning method in Beaujolais?
Gobelet, where vines are pruned to spurs around the head and shoots are tied together vertically.
How do granite soils affect wine quality in Beaujolais?
They limit yields and concentrate flavors, producing higher-quality wines.
What are the three levels in the Beaujolais appellation hierarchy?
Beaujolais, Beaujolais Villages, and Beaujolais Crus.
What is Beaujolais Nouveau?
A wine made for early drinking, released on the third Thursday of November after the vintage.
What are the rules for selling Beaujolais Nouveau?
It must be sold by August 31 of the year following the vintage.
What is carbonic maceration?
A winemaking technique where whole grape clusters ferment in a CO₂-rich environment, producing fruity and aromatic wines.
How do Beaujolais wines made with carbonic maceration taste?
Light-bodied with aromas of kirsch, banana, and cinnamon spice.
How does semi-carbonic maceration differ from carbonic maceration?
Semi-carbonic relies on natural fermentation at the bottom of the tank, producing brighter fruit and finer tannins.
How many Beaujolais Crus are there?
Ten.
Name two lighter, perfumed Beaujolais Crus.
Brouilly and Fleurie.
What are the characteristics of wines from Morgon?
Structured with black fruit and potential for aging.
What is unique about Moulin-à-Vent wines?
hey are among the most structured Beaujolais wines, with firm tannins and aging potential.
What distinguishes Beaujolais Villages wines?
Made from grapes grown in 39 designated villages, often with more concentration and complexity than basic Beaujolais.
How are Beaujolais Villages wines typically blended?
From grapes or wines sourced from different villages.
What are the soils like in Beaujolais Villages and Crus?
Predominantly granite, promoting quality by limiting nutrients and yield.
What role do rolling hills play in Beaujolais vineyards?
Provide better sunlight exposure and drainage for higher-quality grapes.
How are Gamay wines typically aged in Beaujolais?
Many undergo minimal oak aging, while some crus may see time in large vats or old oak.
What is the preferred serving temperature for lighter Beaujolais wines?
Lightly chilled.
Why is mechanization increasing in Beaujolais vineyards?
Training vines along wires facilitates machine harvesting and reduces labor costs.
What is the main flavor profile of Gamay wines from Beaujolais?
Raspberry, cherry, and red berry fruit with medium tannins and body.
Why is the Saône River significant in Beaujolais?
Its alluvial plains are home to vineyards producing basic Beaujolais wines.
What is the typical style of Beaujolais Nouveau?
Light, fruity, and made for immediate consumption.
How do Beaujolais Crus differ from Beaujolais and Beaujolais Villages?
Crus are individual appellations with distinct styles, offering the highest quality wines.
