Synopsis:

Masterclass delving into what is new in terroir-focused Beaujolais, covering the region's recent soil mapping project, stylistic evolutions in the 10 crus and beyond, trends from the latest generation of winemakers, latest in sustainable winemaking and climate change adaptation, and more.

About the Speaker:

Jacky Blisson MW is an independent wine educator, video presenter, writer, and consultant with over two decades experience in all facets of the global wine trade. She is the first Master of Wine in Québec and one of only ten across Canada, as well as being a Bourgogne Wine Official Ambassador.

Jacky writes for Quench magazine, Extra-Brut, and Good Food Revolution. She produces a flourishing, self-titled YouTube wine education channel, a wine review website, and is proud to be a judge for the National Wine Awards of Canada.

Timestamps:

Introduction (00:00)
The host introduces Jacky Blisson, a Master of Wine, and provides background information about her.

Modern Beaujolais Overview (00:01)
Jacky provides an overview of modern Beaujolais and the topics she will cover in the presentation.

Beaujolais Terroir (00:03)
Jacky discusses the geological history and diversity of soils in the Beaujolais region.

Beaujolais Topography and Climate (00:09)
Jacky explains the topography, orientation, and climate of the Beaujolais region.

Historical Context of Beaujolais (00:12)
Jacky delves into the historical context of Beaujolais, including its rise in prominence and the impact of Beaujolais Nouveau.

Evolution of Beaujolais Winemaking (00:16)
Jacky covers the evolution of winemaking in Beaujolais, including the natural wine movement and sustainability efforts.

Challenges and Exciting Phase (00:20)
Jacky discusses the challenges faced by Beaujolais, outside investment, and the emergence of a new generation of producers.

Conclusion (00:22)
Jacky reflects on the current state of Beaujolais and the work being done to build the region's reputation.

Accompaniment of New Producers (00:24)
Support for young winemakers, finance, shared facilities, vineyard purchases, terroir focus, and soil mapping project.

Evolution of Winemaking (00:25)
Shift from full carbonic to semi-carbonic and traditional winemaking, experimentation with aging vessels and minimal intervention styles.

Soil Mapping Project (00:26)
Nine-year soil mapping project, identification of over 300 soil types, impact on vine behavior, climate change adaptation, and premier cru status application.

Geological Diversity (00:30)
Diverse soil compositions, including blue stones, magmatic schist, pink granites, and limestone, influencing vine behavior and wine styles.

Styles of Beaujolais (00:32)
Promotion of three styles: Beaujolais Nouveau, Beaujolais À Table, and Terroir Beaujolais, and their coexistence in the region.

Aging Potential of Wines (00:38)
Longevity of Beaujolais wines, impact of traditional winemaking on shelf life, and aging potential of different styles.

Gamay and Pinot Noir Comparison (00:41)
Distinguishing characteristics of Gamay compared to Pinot Noir, including color, fruit, and tannins, and identifying different styles of Gamay.

Winemaking Techniques (00:43)
Coexistence of semi-carbonic and traditional winemaking in terroir Beaujolais, experimentation, and blend variations.

White Beaujolais and Rosé (00:44)
Focus on white wine offerings, improved quality of white Beaujolais, and the impact of soil mapping on the chardonnay production.

Reinvention of Beaujolais (00:45)
Jacky discusses the evolution of Beaujolais, its styles, and its global recognition.

Upcoming Webinars (00:46)
The host announces future webinars on modern France, featuring Provence rosé and modern Bordeaux.

Closing Remarks and Invitation (00:46)
The host thanks Jacky and invites her for future webinars, signing off and looking forward to the next sessions.