Beaujolais Villages designates an intermediate appellation encompassing approximately 38 communes located mainly in the northern part of the region, offering wines with more structure than generic Beaujolais. The ten Beaujolais crus — Moulin-à-Vent, Morgon, Fleurie, Chiroubles, Brouilly, Côte de Brouilly, Régnié, Chénas, Juliénas and Saint-Amour — represent the qualitative pinnacle of the region. Each cru possesses its own distinct geological identity, which gives its wines a distinctive character and an ageing potential that is often far superior.