Saint-Amour French wine appellation guide: location, history, wines, climate & soil
Saint-Amour is the northernmost of the ten Beaujolais crus, a small appellation with a romantic name, producing silky, fragrant Gamay reds that are especially popular on Valentine's Day.
More info about Saint-Amour
Geographic position
Eastern France, in the Saône-et-Loire department, at the northern tip of Beaujolais on the border with the Mâconnais, about 10 km south of Mâcon, around the village of Saint-Amour-Bellevue.
Origin & history
The village is named after Amator, a Roman soldier who converted to Christianity and founded a monastery here; local legend also links it to a repentant canon who planted vines. The Saint-Amour AOC was created in 1946, the last of the original crus to be recognised.
Wines & grape varieties
Red wine only, from 100% Gamay Noir. Expect raspberry, cherry, peony, violet and a touch of spice, with soft tannins; best enjoyed within 2 to 6 years.
Climate & soil
Semi-continental climate with some southern influence. A mix of granite and schist on the slopes and clay-limestone in the north, near the Mâconnais, giving fruit and structure.
Wine region: Beaujolais
Grape varieties: Gamay