Louis Jadot, Beaujolais-Villages (Beaujolais, Burgundy, France) 2008

 For years I’ve been openly dismissive not only of Beaujolais Nouveau, but also of most other bottlings from Beaujolais, which are frequently grapey and sugary in an overt way.  However, fairness requires recognition of exceptions to the rule, and this bottling is one of them.  It shows red cherry and berry fruit with a bit of brightness and a sweetness that seems natural and fruity rather than confected.  Light but flavorful, it is very pleasant and very useful with light meats or poultry.