BEAUJOLAIS – a NAME of ITS OWN?

It appears as if Beaujolais is finally going to get a little respect. New studies of the Beaujolais terroir has been authorized in order to create the first ever classification for the often under-appreciated wine typically associated with the fruity Beaujolais Nouveau moniker. Two studies are planned. The first, which will be carried out by the company Sigales, will examine the soils and hilly topography of Beaujolais. A second study, to be conducted by La Sicarex, a research center within the Union des Crus de Beaujolais, will examine the climate of the appellation’s various regions. There are also plans to conduct both internal and external campaigns to publicize the studies. The final stage will entail the French appellation authority, INAO, tasting the wines to establish a stylistic link between the study-defined terroirs and the wine. Although traditionally known for its fresh, fruity style, Beaujolais includes 1O village-based wine appellations, all of which make age-worthy wines.