Beaujolais is a wine-growing region that runs south from Burgundy. The region is wildly famous for its Gamay-based red wines, though the Chardonnay-based Beaujolais Blancs boast intrigue all their own.

Because Beaujolais producers are only allowed to plant 15% of their vineyards with white grape varieties, Beaujolais Blanc may never be world-famous. Though little-known there are many Beaujolais Blancs that are well worth your time. The best are made in the North end of the region which is topographically similar to the limestone soils of the neighboring Southern Maconnais. So similar are the regions that their wines share much of the same character- lightly floral, gently fruity, slightly nutty and with plenty of minerality. Try pairing Beaujolais Blanc with crab, lobster or halibut. (Wine/Appellations)