Like any wine geek, I’ve certainly enjoyed many fine Cru Bojos over the years, but I’ve never visited the area nor ever made it an area of study like I have with many of its more illustrious brethren which grow my absolute favorite wines. Well, I’m watching today’s stage of the Tour de France, which left from Macon, skirted some Puilly-Fuisse vineyards, and is “now” (as I watch on DVR) spending several dozen kilometers winding through Beaujolais. Wow! The whole area is simply stunning with rolling hills, green vineyards, of course, and magnificent chateaux throughout. If you have any interest in the geography of the region, I highly recommend putting down your World Atlas of Wine for a moment and finding a way to watch today’s stage (unfortunately there is no prime time replay tonight like there is most nights, due to a NASCAR event). Short of visiting, all of these road-level and aerial views of the region are the best way to gain an appreciation for the truly magnificent the beauty of the region. Breathtaking. Vive la France, and vive le Tour!
Better than great, both! I say killer. I love the country elegance of Beaujolais. So delicious, unpretentious, pairs so well with just about everything. I easily drink a bottle per week. And the stage today - wow, no spoilers - but definitely watch it. Lots of dynamics and sub-plots for all of the jersesies and the stage win itself.
What Robert said. It’s a good area to bike through, almost as good as the Loire Valley but without the architecture. And the wines are great. Not as dramatic as some regions, but very friendly for the most part and there’s some pretty good country cooking that’s not all that hard to find as well.
I’ll be there in about a week for a too short stop on a whirlwind trip. Can’t wait to finally see these places I’ve seen on labels for years. Will report back.
French often say instead of honeymoon “going to the Beaujolais” …
Very nice region … I´ve been there several times, but unfortunately always for a very short time …