Where Is the Beaujolais Wine Region?

A prime location in Eastern France

Beaujolais is located in eastern France, sandwiched between the bustling city of Lyon to the south and the prestigious Burgundy wine region to the north.
It covers a stretch of about 55 kilometers (34 miles) from north to south and is around 15 kilometers (9 miles) wide.
The region’s vineyards lie along the Saône River, taking advantage of gentle hills and favorable climatic conditions that are perfect for grape growing.

Key points of geography

• Latitude and Terrain: Situated at a latitude similar to that of Burgundy, Beaujolais enjoys a semi-continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. Its hilly terrain, particularly in the northern part of the region, provides excellent sun exposure for vineyards, contributing to the ripening of grapes.
• Nearby Cities: The closest major city is Lyon, located just 20-30 miles (30-50 kilometers) south of Beaujolais. This proximity to a large urban center has made Beaujolais popular with wine tourists seeking a short escape to the countryside. To the north lies the historic Burgundy region, making Beaujolais a transitional area that combines influences from both Burgundy and the Rhône Valley.

The two subregions: northern and southern Beaujolais

The Beaujolais region is traditionally divided into two main areas: Northern Beaujolais (Beaujolais Cru) and Southern Beaujolais. Each has unique characteristics, climates, and terroirs that significantly impact the style and quality of wines produced.

1. Northern Beaujolais (Beaujolais Crus)

In the northern part of Beaujolais, you’ll find the celebrated "crus," or village-designated wines, that give this region its most prestigious offerings.
This area is known for its granitic and schist soils, ideal for producing complex, structured wines that are often capable of aging. Here, the hills are steeper, providing excellent drainage and sun exposure, which are crucial for the development of flavors in the Gamay grape.
The Beaujolais crus are divided into ten villages, each with its unique characteristics. These include:

• Morgon: Known for rich, full-bodied wines with intense fruit flavors.
• Fleurie: Produces wines that are lighter and more floral, with delicate aromas and a soft texture.
• Moulin-à-Vent: Often compared to Burgundy wines, Moulin-à-Vent wines are structured and can age well, developing complex earthy and spice notes over time.

These northern wines are typically more robust than the lighter wines of the south and are perfect for those seeking a refined expression of Gamay.

2. Southern Beaujolais

In contrast, Southern Beaujolais is characterized by its clay-limestone soils, which are less demanding than the granite of the north. The vineyards here lie on gentler slopes and produce lighter, fruit-forward wines. This is where Beaujolais Nouveau originates—a young, fresh, and fruity wine released just weeks after harvest every November, celebrated worldwide.
Wines from this part of Beaujolais are generally easy to drink and approachable, with flavors of red fruits like cherry and raspberry. They’re perfect for casual drinking and pair well with a wide range of foods, which has helped boost their popularity internationally.

The unique terroir of Beaujolais

Beaujolais’s terroir is distinct, combining the influences of both its northern neighbor, Burgundy, and its southern proximity to the Rhône. The soils, which range from granite and schist in the north to clay-limestone in the south, shape the wines significantly. Granite, in particular, enhances the fruitiness and minerality of Gamay, giving wines from the north a complexity and structure that sets them apart.
The climate is also essential to understanding Beaujolais’s character. While the region enjoys warm, sunny summers that help the grapes ripen, it’s also subject to cool autumns that preserve acidity, making the wines refreshing and vibrant.

Neighboring regions: Burgundy and the Rhône Valley

Beaujolais benefits from being close to two of France’s most respected wine areas: Burgundy and the Rhône Valley.

Burgundy, located just to the north, is famous for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, while the Rhône Valley to the south is known for Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre.
However, Beaujolais maintains a distinct identity due to its focus on Gamay and its unique winemaking traditions. While Burgundy winemakers often use oak and longer aging processes, Beaujolais producers favor a technique called carbonic maceration for some wines, which enhances the fruity, aromatic profile of Gamay. This technique is one reason why Beaujolais Nouveau is so popular for its fresh, approachable style.

Visiting Beaujolais: a perfect wine destination

For wine lovers, Beaujolais offers an ideal setting for exploration. Its proximity to Lyon makes it accessible, and the scenic landscape of rolling hills and historic villages adds to its charm. Many vineyards and wineries in the region welcome visitors, offering tastings, tours, and insights into Beaujolais's unique winemaking traditions.

Key attractions :

• Beaujolais Wine Route: a scenic journey through the vineyards and quaint villages, perfect for discovering both famous crus and hidden gems.
• Wine Festivals: each November, the Beaujolais Nouveau release is celebrated with festivals across the region, where locals and visitors alike gather to toast the new vintage.