# Beaujolais Royal (Non-Vintage)

- **Producer:** Dufouleur Frères
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Gamay
- **Region:** Beaujolais, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €9
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** strawberry, raspberry, fresh herbs, red plum, red cherry, blueberry

## About this wine

Beaujolais Royal is a non-vintage red wine from Dufouleur Frères, a family winery with roots in Burgundy dating back to the 16th century. Produced in the Beaujolais region, the wine is made from 100% Gamay grapes. Its non-vintage status signifies a blend of multiple years to ensure a consistent style. The wine has a notable history, having been a popular fixture in the Swedish market since 1959, with the 'Royal' designation added in 1969.

## Interesting facts

- Originally named simply 'Beaujolais' in Sweden, the 'Royal' title was added in 1969.
- The wine's light and fresh style was reportedly favored by royalty.
- Over 300,000 bottles are sold annually in Sweden alone.
- It was first introduced in Sweden shortly after rationing ended in 1959.

## Food pairing

The wine's bright acidity and fruit-forward character make it a versatile companion for a range of dishes. It can cut through the richness of pork and charcuterie, complement the delicate flavors of poultry and fish, and echo the herbaceous notes found in many salads and roasted dishes.

## Wine making process

Beaujolais Royal is crafted using 100% Gamay grapes. A defining technique is semi-carbonic maceration, where whole grape clusters are fermented. This process involves the natural crushing of grapes by their own weight, initiating fermentation and preserving the fruit's inherent character. The resulting wine is then prepared for bottling, with the aim of achieving a consistent style across vintages due to its non-vintage designation.