ATHENS, GA: Beautiful Beaujolais - A primer

About the Beaujolais Wine Region

Nestled between the southern reaches of Burgundy and the northern fringes of the Rhône, the Beaujolais wine region unfolds across the picturesque hillsides east of Lyon. Celebrated for the Gamay grape—once dismissed as unworthy by Philippe the Bold, Duke of Burgundy, in the 14th century—Beaujolais produces some of France’s most delightful wines.

Despite its turbulent history, from being a staple in Parisian cafés to enduring criticism as “Vin de Merde” in the early 2000s, Beaujolais has undergone a vibrant revival. Today, a new generation of winemakers is rejuvenating the region through meticulous natural winemaking techniques, improved land management, and a deep respect for the unique terroir.

Beaujolais is a complex region, encompassing several hundred communes that are authorized to label their wines as Beaujolais. Many historic villages within these communes craft wines with distinct personalities, showcasing an extraordinary sense of 'somewhereness' or terroir.

Join Our Seminar: Discovering Beaujolais

This enlightening seminar will delve into the rich history of Beaujolais, the evolution of the Gamay grape, and the region’s resurgence in the wine world. We will taste and compare six distinct wines from various parts of Beaujolais. This comparative approach will illuminate the differences in soil, expressions, and identity across the region, providing a deeper understanding of each wine’s unique character.

What You Will Learn:

• The historical significance and transformation of the Beaujolais region.
• The characteristics and revival of the Gamay grape.
• The impact of terroir on the diversity of wines within Beaujolais.
• A tasting of some of the various 'cru Beaujolais' from distinct single villages (a rare treat!)

Host or Publisher Normal School of Wine