beaujolais: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low (Geographically/situationally specific)Formal to Neutral (in wine/culinary contexts); may be unknown in general casual conversation.
Quick answer
What does “beaujolais” mean?
A light, fruity red wine from the Beaujolais region of France, often produced from Gamay grapes.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A light, fruity red wine from the Beaujolais region of France, often produced from Gamay grapes.
The term primarily refers to the wine itself but can also refer to the wine-producing region or its annual new wine release, Beaujolais Nouveau.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both varieties use the term identically. Pronunciations differ (see IPA).
Connotations
In both cultures, it carries connotations of a lighter, affordable French wine, often associated with bistro culture. Beaujolais Nouveau is linked to a specific marketing event in November.
Frequency
Slightly higher frequency in UK English due to historical cultural ties to French wine; however, both varieties recognize the term in wine-aware contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “beaujolais” in a Sentence
They ordered [a bottle of] Beaujolais.Beaujolais pairs [well] with [chicken].Beaujolais is made [from Gamay grapes].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “beaujolais” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- A classic Beaujolais style
American English
- A Beaujolais-inspired dish
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In hospitality, wine retail, or import/export discussions.
Academic
In oenology, viticulture, or cultural studies of France.
Everyday
In restaurant settings, social dinners, or discussing wine preferences.
Technical
Precise reference in winemaking to a specific AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée).
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “beaujolais”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “beaujolais”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “beaujolais”
- Incorrect spelling: 'Beaujolais', 'Beaujolais'.
- Mispronunciation: Pronouncing the final 's'.
- Misuse: Using it as a generic term for any French red wine.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is primarily a wine region in France. The wine is made predominantly from the Gamay grape.
In British English: boh-zhuh-LAY. In American English: boh-zhuh-LAY (with a longer 'oh' sound). The final 's' is silent.
Yes, it is often recommended to serve Beaujolais slightly chilled, at about 12-14°C (54-57°F), to enhance its fresh, fruity character.
Its light body and low tannins make it excellent with poultry, charcuterie, casual picnic foods, and mild cheeses.
A light, fruity red wine from the Beaujolais region of France, often produced from Gamay grapes.
Beaujolais is usually formal to neutral (in wine/culinary contexts); may be unknown in general casual conversation. in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[As dead as] last year's Beaujolais Nouveau (humorous, implying something is passé).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'Beau' (handsome in French) + 'jolais' (sounds like 'jolly'). A handsome, jolly red wine.
Conceptual Metaphor
WINE IS A REGION (Metonymy: The place name stands for the product).
Practice
Quiz
What is Beaujolais Nouveau?