More information on Beaujolais

Beaujolais is a famous wine-producing region located in eastern France. It is situated north of Lyon and south of Macon, within the larger Burgundy region. Beaujolais' wineries are known for producing light-bodied, fruity red wines, made primarily from the Gamay grape. The region has a long history of winemaking dating back to the Roman era. Today, Beaujolais is home to over 3,000 winegrowers and 12 appellations, each with its unique terroir and winemaking traditions.

Beaujolais is a paradise for wine lovers, offering a variety of experiences for visitors. Wine tours and wine tastings are the main attraction, with many wineries open to the public. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and sample different wines. Beaujolais is also known for its "Bistrot de Pays," a traditional restaurant that serves local cuisine and wine. The region has a rich cultural heritage and is home to many charming villages and historic sites, making it an ideal destination for wine and food lovers.

Which food to taste in Beaujolais?

Beaujolais is known for its rustic, hearty cuisine that pairs perfectly with the region's wines. Local specialties include "coq au vin," a chicken stew cooked in red wine, and "boeuf bourguignon," a beef stew flavored with red wine and vegetables. Another must-try dish is "andouillette," a sausage made from pork chitterlings and flavored with onions and mustard. The region is also famous for its cheese, including "Bleu de Bresse," "Comté," and "Saint-Marcellin", which are often served during wine tastings. Visitors can enjoy traditional cuisine at the many Bistrot de Pays throughout the region.

Which wines to taste in Beaujolais?

The Gamay grape is the star of Beaujolais, producing light-bodied, fruity red wines with flavors of raspberry, cherry, and blackcurrant. Other grapes grown in the region include Chardonnay and Aligoté, used to produce white wines. During wine tastings, visitors will learn that the region's wineries use a unique winemaking process called "carbonic maceration," which involves fermenting the grapes whole rather than crushing them. This technique produces wines with low tannins and a fruity character.

Which is the best season to visit Beaujolais?

The best time to visit Beaujolais' wineries for wine tours and wine tastings is during the fall, when the grape harvest takes place. This is a busy time of year for the winemakers, and visitors can participate in the grape picking and crushing process. The region also hosts many wine festivals during this time, including the famous "Beaujolais Nouveau" festival held on the third Thursday in November. In the summer, visitors can enjoy the region's many outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and horseback riding.

What things to do in Beaujolais?

Beaujolais has much to offer visitors beyond wine tours, wine tastings and food. The region is home to many historic sites, including the medieval village of Oingt and the 12th-century Abbey of Cluny. Visitors can also explore the many vineyards and wineries, such as the Château de Corcelles or the Château de la Chaize. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking in the Beaujolais hills, cycling along the Saône River, or visiting the Parc des Oiseaux, a bird park and zoo located in Villars-les-Dombes.