Beaujolais Grapes

Question 1

Gamay (Red)

Answer 1

Budding: Early (risk of spring frost)

Ripening: Early

Disease: Susceptible to millerandage, rot, and wind damage (due to thin skins)

Uniqueness: Nearly 96% of plantings; highly influenced by soil & site; used in Beaujolais Nouveau, Villages, and Crus

Flavor Profile: Red cherry, raspberry, red plum, kirsch, blueberry (from carbonic maceration)

Structure: Light to medium body, medium alcohol, medium(+) to high acidity, light to medium tannins​

Question 2

Chardonnay (White)

Answer 2

Budding: Early

Ripening: Early

Disease: Prone to grey rot and mildew

Uniqueness: Small percentage; grown mostly in the north of Beaujolais (near Mâconnais); used for white Beaujolais and Crémant de Bourgogne

Flavor Profile: Citrus, apple, pear

Structure: Light to medium body, medium to high acidity​