Maybe you live in the Beaujolais region, or maybe you have lived here in the past but moved away and would like to have a link to your old home.
Or maybe you live in another part of the world, and you are not familiar with our beautiful region. If that’s the case, here’s an introductory snapshot.
The Beaujolais region is located in eastern France in the department of Rhône, about 50 kilometres north of Lyon. Its historical capital is Beaujeu, but its largest town is Villefranche-sur-Saône.
The history of the Beaujolais region dates back centuries. The area has been inhabited since ancient times, with evidence of Roman settlements and vine cultivation. However, it was during the Middle Ages that viticulture in Beaujolais truly flourished, with monks playing a significant role in developing the region’s vineyards and winemaking techniques.
In the 14th century, the region’s wines gained popularity, especially among the local nobility. The reputation of Beaujolais wines continued to grow, and by the 17th century they were being enjoyed by the French Royal Court.
The introduction of the railway system in the 19th century greatly facilitated the transportation of Beaujolais wines to other parts of France and beyond. This led to increased demand and further recognition of the region’s wines.
Today, the region is still known for its wine, but also for its delightful rolling hills and picturesque ‘pierre-dorées’ (golden stone) villages, offering an unforgettable experience for visitors and wine enthusiasts alike. The third Thursday of November is always a date to remember, as this is when the ‘Beaujolais Nouveau’ wine is released!!
I’m an Englishman, not in New York, but in the Beaujolais region, where I have been living since 2002.
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