Beaujolais-Villages French wine appellation guide: location, history, wines, climate & soil
Beaujolais-Villages is the middle tier of Beaujolais, covering 38 selected villages in the hilly north of the region, producing juicy, vibrant Gamay reds with more depth than basic Beaujolais.
More info about Beaujolais-Villages
Geographic position
Eastern France, in the Rhône and Saône-et-Loire departments, in the granite hills of northern Beaujolais around the ten crus, between Mâcon and Villefranche-sur-Saône, about 30 to 60 km north of Lyon.
Origin & history
Vines were planted here by the Romans and developed by Benedictine monks in the 7th century. The lords of Beaujeu, who gave the region its name, promoted its wines from the 10th century. The Beaujolais-Villages AOC was created in 1950, and its Nouveau version is released each November.
Wines & grape varieties
Mostly red from 100% Gamay Noir, often made by semi-carbonic maceration. Expect strawberry, raspberry, cherry, banana and floral notes, with soft tannins and lively freshness; serve slightly chilled. A little white is made from Chardonnay, and some rosé.
Climate & soil
Semi-continental climate with some Mediterranean influence. Pink granite, schist and sandy soils on hillsides, giving fruity, structured wines.
Wine region: Beaujolais
Grape varieties: Chardonnay, Gamay