Compagnie Beaujolaise, Beaujolais Villages 2023
Name: Compagnie Beaujolaise, Beaujolais Villages 2023
Type: Beaujolais
Grapes: Gamay
Where to Buy + How Much: Trader Joe’s ($8.99 as of October 2025)
Wine Aisle Adventurer, let me introduce you to one of the easiest smiles in the wine aisle and one this adventurer personally reaches for often. Beaujolais Villages is known for being bright, cheerful, and endlessly drinkable, and this bottle from Compagnie Beaujolaise delivers exactly that. It is the kind of wine that seems to say “relax, we’re good” the moment you pull the cork.
Aroma: What am I smelling and why?
Bring the glass to your nose and expect a lively jumble of red fruit. Think fresh cherry, raspberry, and a little strawberry. Gamay is naturally aromatic and loves to express itself, especially in a warm and generous vintage like 2023. You might also detect a soft floral lift or a hint of crushed stones. These touches come from the region’s granite rich soils, which tend to add freshness and a subtle mineral edge. The overall effect is energizing and playful without losing its sense of place.
Palate: What am I tasting and why?
On the palate, this wine shows off its trademark lightness. Juicy red fruit takes the lead with flavors that feel crisp and bright. The acidity is fresh but never sharp, keeping the wine lively from the first sip to the last. Tannins stay soft and friendly, which is classic for Gamay and part of why Beaujolais is such a great companion for casual meals. You may notice a touch of spice or a gentle earthy note on the finish, both of which add a bit of grounding to all that fruit.
Enjoy: How and with what?
This is the bottle you reach for when dinner plans are flexible or when you want something crowd pleasing. It pairs beautifully with roast chicken, charcuterie, simple pastas, and anything you might eat on a patio. A slight chill works wonders here and makes the fruit pop even more. If you ever need a red that welcomes everyone to the table, this is it.
Compagnie Beaujolaise’s Beaujolais Villages 2023 is a reminder that great wine does not need to be complicated. It is bright, it is charming, and it is ready to make your meal or your evening just a little bit lighter.
