AOC Beaujolais villages Wine

AOC Beaujolais-Villages: Everything You Need to Know About the Wines of This Appellation

History of the AOC Beaujolais-Villages

Recognized since 1950, the AOC Beaujolais-Villages encompasses 38 communes and represents a significant part of the Beaujolais vineyard. It closely resembles the Beaujolais crus due to its sandy-granitic terroir and strict production guidelines. Although primarily renowned for its red wines, the AOC Beaujolais-Villages also produces rare white and rosé wines.

Climate and Terroir of the AOC Beaujolais-Villages

Climate: The appellation enjoys a temperate semi-continental climate moderated by Mediterranean influences, with cold winters and hot summers. This climate is ideal for the optimal development of Gamay, the primary red grape variety of the Beaujolais region.

Soils: The soils of AOC Beaujolais-Villages are predominantly granitic, sandy, and schistose, transitioning to the clay-limestone soils of southern Beaujolais.

Gamay and Chardonnay: The Essential Grape Varieties of AOC Beaujolais-Villages

Wines from the AOC Beaujolais-Villages are crafted from Gamay for reds and rosés, and Chardonnay for whites. Gamay, the emblematic grape of Beaujolais, imparts fruity and approachable qualities to the red wines of the AOC Beaujolais-Villages, which are also known for their body and structure.

Style of AOC Beaujolais-Villages Wines

White: The rare white wines exhibit a pale yellow color and reveal aromas of white-fleshed fruits, citrus, and white flowers. The palate is tender and fresh.

Rosé: The rosé wines display a pale pink hue and a nose of small red fruits (strawberries, raspberries, red currants) and citrus. On the palate, they are fresh, supple, and delightful.

Red: The red wines of AOC Beaujolais-Villages showcase a cherry-red color with violet highlights. The nose suggests notes of red and black fruits (blackcurrant, wild strawberry, raspberry), flowers (violet), and English candy. On the palate, they are generally pleasant, fruity, with soft and fine tannins.

Best Food Pairings with a Wine from AOC Beaujolais-Villages

Here are some food pairing ideas to complement a wine from a château or domain in AOC Beaujolais-Villages, whether it be white, red, or rosé:

White:

• Fish in sauce
• Ham and endive gratin

Rosé:

• Appetizers
• Mixed salads

Red:

• Charcuterie
• Roast poultry
• Andouillette (tripe sausage)
• Pork carbonade