Beaujolais: 2 anecdotes you may not know

While waiting for this festive event, why not take an interest in this wine region? Because it’s not limited to just its Beaujolais Nouveau... Here are 2 anecdotes you might not know.

1) Beaujolais & Burgundy: Crossed Destinies

You’re probably aware that Burgundy and Beaujolais are geographically close. But these two wine regions have much more in common than just a border. For instance, the Gamay grape, which is the main variety in Beaujolais, was grown for a long time in Burgundy’s vineyards. Additionally, Beaujolais is not the only region to celebrate its "new wine." In fact, this festival also takes place in Burgundy, in the town of Montagny, and is traditionally celebrated in mid-October.

2) Bernard Pivot, an Unconditional Lover of Beaujolais

He’s known for his shows Apostrophes and Bouillon de Culture, as well as his famous dictation. But Bernard Pivot’s biography includes a significant detail: his devotion to wine, particularly Beaujolais. His passion for this vineyard, which the literary figure describes as "earthy," is so great that he has generously donated numerous literary works to the library in Quincié-en-Beaujolais, which has been named after him for over 20 years.

Where does this unconditional love come from? Simply from his family. His mother owned a vineyard in the region. Furthermore, Bernard Pivot revealed in an interview with the Revue du Vin de France that it was thanks to Beaujolais that he was able to start his career as a literary journalist at Le Figaro...

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FAQ - Beaujolais anecdotes

What is the main grape variety of Beaujolais?

Gamay is the flagship grape of the Beaujolais vineyard. Little known fact: it was grown for a long time in neighbouring Burgundy before finding in Beaujolais its ideal terroir.

When does Beaujolais Nouveau come out?

Beaujolais Nouveau is released every year on the third Thursday in November. This festive event marks the sale of the first wine from the harvest.

Is Beaujolais the only region to celebrate a new wine?

No. Burgundy also celebrates its new wine, notably in the town of Montagny, where the tradition takes place around mid-October, a month before Beaujolais Nouveau.

Why was Bernard Pivot so attached to Beaujolais?

His mother owned a wine estate in the region. The journalist held a genuine devotion to this vineyard and donated many literary works to the library in Quincié-en-Beaujolais, which has borne his name for over twenty years.

What connects Beaujolais and Burgundy?

Beyond their geographical closeness, the two regions share the Gamay grape and the new wine tradition. Their winemaking histories are closely intertwined.