The season for outdoor grilling has officially made its entrance. Now it’s time to peruse the wine cellar for light yet robust picks that are perfect for quaffing en plein air.

If you haven’t already sampled this year’s terrific release of 2009 Beaujolais crus, do so immediately. These, refreshing wines are full of on the nose fruit, and fleshed out with light but well bodied tannins. Their deep berry notes and smooth finish make them ideal for pairing with grilled steak and gourmet blend burgers. Even better, the pricing for this vintage is reasonable—with many excellent choices in the twenty-dollar range!

2009 has been talked up as one of the greatest harvests to date. Historically, this kind of production is due to a confluence of events: perfect weather, perfect timing, and impeccable care. There’s still plenty on the market to snap up right now –it’s a grand time to scan the shelves for any of the great Beaujolais crus still out there.

For those who may not know, a cru is a wine named specifically for the designated plot of land where the grapes are grown. In Beaujolais, a cru is one step above the Beaujolais nouveau, which could come from any grapes of the region. A Beaujolais cru can be fuller, richer, and more complex that other Beaujolais wines. There are a total of 10 crus in the entire appellation, but there are plenty of great choices in local NYC wine shops.  Here are a few good picks from 2009 to steer you to great drinking.

Saint-Amour 2009 Domaine des Billards

This delicious cru comes from the very northernmost corner of the Beaujolais region. Maybe that’s why, in addition to its approachable fruitiness, there is also a slightly gamey touch. $20.99 at Sussex Wines & Spirits. 300 East 42^nd St. 212.867.5838.
 

Chiroubles 2009 Damien Coquelet

This fruit forward cru offers refreshing depth of flavor staring with a delightful palate that’s flecked with mineral notes. It’s distinctive and very drinkable. $18.99 at Sussex wines & Spirits. 300 East 42^nd St. 212.867.5838.