Louis Jadot Beaujolais

Louis Jadot Beaujolais is a 100% Gamay red wine from Burgundy, France, bottled at 12.5–13% ABV in a standard 750ml format. The 2022 vintage earned 90 points from Wine Enthusiast, underscoring this expression's reputation as one of the most dependable Beaujolais on the market from a house with over 160 years of Burgundian winemaking heritage.

Quick Facts: ABV: 12.5–13%  |  Origin: Beaujolais, Burgundy, France  |  Varietal: 100% Gamay  |  Producer: Maison Louis Jadot (est. 1859)

Production & Heritage

Maison Louis Jadot was founded in 1859 in Beaune, the heart of Burgundy's Côte d'Or, and has grown into one of the region's most respected négociant houses. For this Beaujolais, Jadot employs semi-carbonic maceration rather than the full carbonic maceration typical of the appellation — a deliberate choice that preserves the bright, juicy fruit character of Gamay while extracting more tannin and structural depth. Grapes are handpicked in whole bunches and undergo an extended cold soak before fermentation, contributing additional aromatic complexity and a firmer palate than many entry-level Beaujolais wines.

Tasting Notes

Aroma: The nose opens with fresh strawberry and raspberry, layered with darker notes of black cherry and dried violet. A subtle thread of grey pepper and liquorice adds savory intrigue beneath the fruit.

Taste: The entry is bright and fruit-forward — juicy red cherry and ripe strawberry dominate — before the mid-palate introduces gentle spice and earthy undertones. Medium-bodied with medium-plus acidity, the wine strikes a balance between approachable fruitiness and genuine structure.

Finish: The finish is clean and moderately long, with lingering notes of cranberry and a faint floral lift. A touch of peppery spice persists, keeping the palate engaged after each sip.

How to Drink Jadot Beaujolais

Serve slightly chilled, around 55–60°F (13–15°C), to highlight the wine's freshness and aromatic lift. A light chill tames the fruitiness just enough to let the structure and acidity shine through.

• Kir: The wine's bright acidity and red fruit profile make it an excellent base when topped with a splash of crème de cassis.
• Beaujolais Sangria: Its juicy strawberry and cherry notes amplify beautifully when mixed with fresh seasonal fruit and a touch of brandy.
• Red Wine Spritzer: The medium body and lively acidity hold up well when combined with sparkling water and a citrus twist for a refreshing warm-weather pour.

Best For

• Introducing someone to French red wine without overwhelming tannin
• Weeknight dinners that call for a versatile, food-friendly red
• Hosting a casual charcuterie and cheese gathering
• Building a Burgundy collection starting from an accessible appellation

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Jadot Beaujolais taste like? It delivers vibrant red fruit — strawberry, raspberry, and cherry — balanced by moderate acidity, gentle spice, and earthy undertones. The wine is medium-bodied with a clean, moderately long finish.

How does Jadot Beaujolais compare to Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais? Both are leading négociant Beaujolais, but Jadot's use of semi-carbonic maceration and extended cold soaking generally yields more structure and tannic depth. Duboeuf tends toward a lighter, more immediately fruit-driven style owing to fuller carbonic maceration techniques.

Is Jadot Beaujolais good for beginners? Yes — its bright fruit, soft tannins, and medium body make it one of the most approachable French reds available. The slight chill-ability and food versatility also lower the barrier for new wine drinkers.

Where is Jadot Beaujolais made? It is produced by Maison Louis Jadot, headquartered in Beaune in Burgundy's Côte d'Or, using Gamay grapes sourced from the Beaujolais appellation in southern Burgundy, France.

What foods pair well with Jadot Beaujolais? Charcuterie boards with cured salami and pâté complement the wine's peppery spice. Roast chicken or turkey benefit from the acidity cutting through richer preparations. Soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert echo the wine's supple texture. Grilled salmon works well thanks to the Gamay's light tannins. Pizza Margherita mirrors the bright tomato and herbal notes.

What sizes does Jadot Beaujolais come in? The standard bottling is 750ml, which is the most widely available format.

Is Jadot Beaujolais worth the price? It positions as a value-oriented Beaujolais from a prestigious Burgundy house, punching above its price tier with semi-carbonic maceration techniques and consistent critical recognition, including 90 points from Wine Enthusiast for the 2022 vintage.

Why Jadot Beaujolais?

What separates this wine from the crowded Beaujolais field is Jadot's semi-carbonic maceration and extended cold soak — production choices that add measurable structure without sacrificing the vibrant fruit character that defines the appellation. The 90-point score from Wine Enthusiast for the 2022 vintage confirms that this approach continues to deliver results. Backed by a house founded in 1859 with deep roots in Burgundy's most prestigious vineyards, Jadot brings a level of winemaking rigor to entry-level Beaujolais that few competitors match. For drinkers seeking a red that is both immediately enjoyable and meaningfully well-made, this bottling earns its place on any table.