BEAUJOLAIS, THE FRENCH TWIST

I must confess I’m in love with rose wines!

I know we have reviewed these wines in the past, as they are the perfect option for spring and summer, but let me go beyond that and tell you something about my new “French lover”, the Beaujolais!

This type of light bodied red wine is generally made from the French Gamay grape, as it has a thin skin and is low in tannins.

The Beaujolais name comes from the Beaujolais Province in France, located north of Lyon, where the Romans were the first ones to cultivate this grape. For many years, this wine could only be found in the Lyon region, but later in the 19th Century with the expansion of the French railroad system, they started transporting it to markets in Paris, and eventually it spread throughout Europe.

The original grape “Gamay Noir” is a type of grape that ripens almost two weeks earlier than Pinot Noir, and is much less difficult to cultivate. It produces a strong and fruity wine, and should be consumed within two years of its harvest.

Many wine experts consider the Beaujolais a “fun” wine, as it is fruity, not too heavy, and inexpensive making it perfect for any party. Speaking about parties, there is an old tradition which takes place every year in Beaujolais, France in November. Wine makers from that region are ready to release the newest vintage so when midnight comes, they race off to see who can get the wine to Paris first. On that night, most of the restaurants in Paris celebrate the arrival of the new wine, and everybody gets to taste new Beaujolais!

This classic Parisian bistro wine is a fruity, easy-drinking, and offers aromas of cherries, raspberries, currants, and the best way to drink is to slightly chill it in a bucket of ice water.

Next time you invite your neighbors over for a glass of wine in your backyard, light some candles and create your own buffet table with a crispy French baguette, some Brie and a tray of romaine hearts with lemon-honey vinaigrette.

Summer nights are perfect for a French Beaujolais!