bargains of beaujolais

by Amy Reiley

Beaujolais becomes the buzz once every year when the Nouveau, (the just made wine of the current vintage) celebrates its annual release. Nouveau is party wine, meant to be drunk young and well chilled. And though its best-known product is often considered to be alcoholic Kool-aid, bear in mind that Beajolais is part of Burgundy, considered by some to be the finest wine region in the world.

What I'm getting at here is that beyond the Nouveau, there's a world of fine wines made from the misunderstood Gamay grape flying under the radar. And while Beajolais wines tend to taste best slightly chilled, they are still perfect reds for holiday celebrations. Well-priced by any measure, these fruity yet often admirably balanced, complex and very complete wines will add that little extra something to your Turkey Day feast.

 

Georges DuBoeuf
2003 Moulin au Vent
A meaty, rich example of what is capable from the region, DuBeouf's Moulin au Vent offers flavors and aromas ranging from licorice to burnt sugar to chocolate. Although structurally the wine is a bit “busy,” it has great taste and a nice, long finish. $

Mommesin
2003 Saint-Amour
As romantic a wine as it's region, Saint-Amour, would suggest, this Gamay is most easy to relate to if you think of a cross between Pinot and Syrah. There are pretty aromas and flavors with bright, red fruit like Pinot and a lingering hint of spice like Syrah. Very nice. $$

Jadot
2005 Chateau des Jacques Moulin a Vents Clos de Champ de Couer
A preview of good things to come - put it on your wish list. It is as sexy as a beautiful woman with a hint of a spicy cologne lingering on her collar and the sense not to hide it by running home to change her shirt. $$$

Jadot
2003 Chateau Bellvue Morgon Clos du Py
A fascinating balance of sweet and savory aromas, it offers a little currant and a little roast lamb, (herbal notes like rosemary and sage). But don't let that fool you into thinking it's a lightweight - flavors are intense, brooding even, with a lingering licorice finish that leaves just the right impression. $$$

$ under 15USD
$$ 15-25USD
$$$ 25-50USD
$$$$ over 50USD

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