Grape Wine Journey

Beajolais Cru

Beaujolais, a wine that I used to drink quite a bit when I was young; well, simply because it was cheap, fruity and easy to drink.   These days, knowing better, this is not a wine I will stock up for my cellar.

But I was genuinely surprised by tasting a Beaujolais Cru last night at a “Burgundy Red” tasting class.  Burgundy is a complicated region, and often confusing with the village and vineyard appellations.  We tasted a few Premier Cru and Grand Cru last night, most were very complex, balanced with long length. 

Burgundy Red Tasting Class

The interesting question will always be the price, is that something you will buy for that price or is this wine 3 times better than the other.  This is obviously a very personal choice.

As I said, the surprise for me was the Beaujolais Cru; there are only 10 villages that are recognized as Cru.  The one we tasted last night was 2007 Moulin-a-Vent Olivier Merlin.

First surprise – this wine can age for 10 years. 

Following my own tasting, the nose and palate did not show the classic bubble gum, candy aroma.  It showed cherry, red fruit and a hint of spice.  It was well balanced and very easy to drink; a good everyday wine or an aperitif.  And the price …. $158.