Julienas French wine appellation guide: location, history, wines, climate & soil
Juliénas is one of the ten Beaujolais crus, named after Julius Caesar, producing vibrant, structured Gamay reds that combine bright fruit with spice and some ageing potential.
More info about Julienas
Geographic position
Eastern France, at the northern end of the Beaujolais crus, straddling the Rhône and Saône-et-Loire departments, around the villages of Juliénas, Jullié, Emeringes and Pruzilly, between Saint-Amour and Chénas.
Origin & history
Tradition holds that the village was founded by Julius Caesar's legions, and Roman remains have been found locally. The old church of Juliénas was turned into a wine-tasting cellar decorated with Bacchic scenes. Juliénas became an AOC in 1938.
Wines & grape varieties
Red wine only, from 100% Gamay Noir. Expect raspberry, blackcurrant, peony, violet and cinnamon notes, with firm but ripe tannins; the best wines age well for 5 to 8 years.
Climate & soil
Semi-continental climate. Granite and schist slopes in the west, with clay-limestone and alluvial soils further east, giving both fruit and structure.
Wine region: Beaujolais
Grape varieties: Gamay