Chénas

Chénas is an appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) for red wines in the Beaujolais region of eastern France. It is one of the ten Beaujolais Crus and, by production, is among the smallest of the Crus. The appellation covers a relatively small area around the village of Chénas, located in the northern Beaujolais.

Wines from Chénas are made exclusively from the Gamay grape. They are typically medium bodied with bright acidity and soft to firm tannins, offering aromas of red cherry, raspberry, and plum, often with floral and peppery notes. On the palate, the wines tend to be elegant with a certain mineral character and the potential to develop more complex spice and earthy notes with bottle aging.

Styles within the Chénas appellation can vary from lighter, fruit-forward bottles to more structured expressions that can age for a decade or more. Some producers choose oak aging to add subtle vanilla and spice, but many emphasize the fruit and terroir of Gamay. Like other Beaujolais Crus, Chénas seeks to express a distinct sense of place while remaining true to the varieties and techniques typical of the Beaujolais region.

The designation has been part of the Beaujolais AOC system since the Crus were formally recognized in the 20th century. Viticulture in the area predates modern labeling, with the Beaujolais region having a long history of wine production dating back to medieval times. The climate features relatively cool winters and warm summers, contributing to the wines’ balance of freshness and ripeness.