There is a special sort of joy that washes over me when I unbox a mixed case of Beaujolais. More so than any place in France, the wines from this single region inspire togetherness and generosity in a distinctly lighthearted, carefree way. There’s promise in the way Beaujolais can turn a dull weeknight into an impromptu holiday, or to extend—somewhat surreptitiously—a quick bite with friends into an evening-long celebration. While many regions have followed suit, bottling their own versions of friendly, easy-to-love wines, there is only one Beaujolais. Here’s the breakdown of what we are offering today:
     From the Gang of Four, we’ve included Guy Breton’s Régnié and Chiroubles cuvées. The former is delicately perfumed and elegant, while the latter has some darker fruit and savory spice. From father-son duo Jean-Paul and Charly Thévenet, we’ve chosen something classic and something new: their time-honored old-vine Morgon, and “Terrain Rouge,” their inaugural vintage of a white wine grown in clay and limestone soils just outside the cru of Morgon.
     From our beloved growers on the Mont Brouilly, you’ll find Nicole Chanrion and Château Thivin’s Côte-de-Brouilly and Brouilly respectively, as well as a blanc apiece, each embracing its own typicity. Thivin’s “Clos de Rochebonne” is made from Chardonnay, while Chanrion’s unique “Perle de Gamay” is made from direct-pressed Gamay Noir.
     On opposite ends of the style spectrum, explore the structured, Rhône-like Juliénas and Fleurie bottlings from Chignard (perfect for heartier fare) as well as the juicier and spirited, bouchon Lyonnais-quality rouge and rosé from Dupeuble.
     If you have the good sense to treat yourself to this sampler, the reward will be much greater than the sum of its parts. A stocked and chilled stash of Beaujolais is not merely an inventory of tasty wine, it’s a reliable group of friends, on call when the mood for something festive, effortless, and utterly delicious strikes.