Ep 240 – The Secrets of Beaujolais: Gamay, Granite Soils & Old Vines with Natasha Hughes MW

In this episode, Janina sits down with Natasha Hughes MW, author of The Wines of Beaujolais, to explore one of France’s most misunderstood wine regions. They discuss why Beaujolais is far more than simple Nouveau, how over 300 soil types and multiple winemaking styles shape the wines, and why Gamay can age beautifully. Natasha shares insights on the diversity of the Crus, the role of granite and diorite, old vines (including pre-phylloxera parcels), climate-driven changes, and the rise of exciting new producers bringing fresh energy to the region.  📚 Find Natasha’s book: The Wines of Beaujolais (Academie du Vin) 💸 Use code EATSLEEP15 for 15% off Shownotes [00:32] Beaujolais Nouveau Day recap and shifting the focus to the deeper complexity of the region. [01:03] Natasha’s journey into wine, building a writing career, and the challenge of becoming a Master of Wine. [08:29] Why Beaujolais? Natasha on the region’s history, struggles after the Nouveau boom, and its current revival. [10:09] The biggest misconception: Beaujolais reduced to simple, fruity Nouveau. [11:51] 300+ soil types in a compact area - and how geology, altitude, and exposure shape wine style. [15:22] Winemaking styles in Beaujolais: Burgundian, semi-carbonic, full carbonic, and thermovinification - and why “bubblegum” is not from carbonic maceration. [19:30] Choosing a Beaujolais by style: pink granite (fine, perfumed, red-fruited) vs. diorite (darker, richer, more structured). [22:57] Chiroubles: high altitude, 100% pink granite, floral, herbal, with a wild crunchy freshness. [24:37] Morgon & Moulin-à-Vent: the opposite profile - powerful, age-worthy, and sometimes reminiscent of Pinot Noir, Syrah or even Nebbiolo. [28:31] Old vines and pre-phylloxera parcels - why Beaujolais is a treasure trove of historic vineyards. [39:26] Rising stars and undervalued areas: Beaujolais Villages and exciting producers such as Domaine Les Garçons, and Domaine de la Grosse Pierre (Pauline Passot). [47:29] Closing anecdote: a 1932 auction story that turned a missed opportunity into extraordinary luck. 📩 Questions or feedback? Email: [email protected] 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Until next week – cheers to you! 🥂 THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot. RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list

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