87. Beaujolais Beyond Nouveau: History, Appellations, and the Future of Gamay

Resources & Links

• Sign up for the Wine Educate newsletter (weekly WSET study tips for Levels 1, 2, and 3): https://mailchi.mp/6648859973ba/newsletter

• Explore upcoming WSET classes and trips:
  www.wineeducate.com

• Listen to the Wine Educate Podcast on:

  • Apple Podcasts

  • Spotify

  • YouTube (video versions available)

• If you missed last week's episode on Beaujolais Nouveau (Episode 86), listen to that one first for context.

How to Contact Us

Have a question, suggestion, or Beaujolais story to share?
Email Joanne at joanne@wineeducate.com
Instagram: @wineeducate

Episode Overview

In this episode, we stay in Beaujolais but move beyond Beaujolais Nouveau. Building on Episode 86, Joanne looks at the broader Beaujolais region: its geography, history, appellation hierarchy, and some very exciting developments that are shaping its future. This episode is designed to support WSET Level 2 and Level 3 students, but it is also accessible for curious wine enthusiasts who want to understand why Beaujolais is such an interesting region to explore.

Joanne also explains why Beaujolais can be one of the most rewarding regions for everyday collectors who do not necessarily have a Burgundy-sized budget but still want to experience site expression, aging potential, and nuance.

Where Is Beaujolais and Why Does It Matter?

• Beaujolais is in France, sandwiched between Burgundy to the north and the Rhône to the south.

• The region is about 34 miles (55 km) long and 7–9 miles (11–14 km) wide, running from the Mâconnais down toward Lyon.

• The climate is moderate with four distinct seasons, and the landscape divides roughly into:

  • Northern and western hills with pink granite and poorer soils

  • Southern flatter, more fertile areas

• This split in topography and soil type directly influences wine styles and quality.

A Short History of Beaujolais: Romans, Monks, and Nobles

Joanne walks through a brief but vivid history of the region:

• Romans

  • Beaujolais sat on a Roman trade route.

  • Retired Roman soldiers were often granted land and vines as part of their "retirement package."

  • Several names still reflect this legacy:

    • Brouilly (from the Roman lieutenant Brulius)

    • Fleurie (from the legionary Florius)

    • Juliénas (from Julius Caesar)

• Monks

  • After the Romans, monastic orders took over much of the vineyard work.