Beaujolais Nouveau is made from Gamay grapes grown around Lyon, France. The grapes are harvested, fermented a short time (typically six weeks or so), and then shipped around the world.
Technically, the wine is not sold until 12:01am on the official date, creating quite a buzz of excitement for those who consider this a traditional start to the holiday season. I managed to score two bottles on Tuesday and quickly smuggled the contraband into the house before the wine police arrived.
I am no oenophile (wine connoisseur), and this wine is not at all sophisticated. It is too young and immature to develop any complexity. Instead, it is fresh, fruity, and light. It pairs well with appetizers or a Thanksgiving turkey. It is a wine for jeans and-t-shirts; not fancy dinner dresses. And that suits me just fine.
This particular wine is bottled early and intended for immediate consumption. There is no need to let the wine "breathe" - just open, pour, and serve. Because the wine is meant to be enjoyed early, it does not improve with age. Typically, the fall vintage is depleted by Easter.
Here in the midwest, we have two choices of nouveau wine: Beaujolais and Beaujolais Villages. To be honest, I do not know the official difference, but I always conduct a taste test.
Typically the Village is a bit more rich; it has a little more depth. And I often find it is worth the extra dollar in price. But others may prefer the lighter version. I would highly recommend buying one of each and conducting your own blind tasting.
The Beaujolais region also offers more traditional styles of red wine made from the Gamay grape. If you enjoy this refreshing holiday beverage, you might want to try one of the other ten varietals. (For a detailed, comprehensive list, please visit Wine Facts Online).
Now that we have selected our preference, we need to head out and buy a case of the Villages to enjoy throughout the Christmas season.
Cheers!
I well remember what a big deal it was when this wine came out when we lived in France. It was a lot of fun!
ReplyDeleteOh Cathy... some year I hope to be there for the harvest, when they apparently harvest all grapes by hand :)
DeleteWe tried it a few times but it's never been a favorite. But the great release of the wine has always intrigued and it's fun to get a few bottles at the release!
ReplyDeleteI am actually more of a chardonnay drinker... which might explain why I prefer this light fruity red to the typical heavy ones.
DeleteI hadn't heard of this wine but it sounds delightful! How fun that it's released at a specific date. This sounds like a great tradition to start the holidays with.
ReplyDeleteIt really is a lot of fun, Katherine - and I have actually recruited a few friends to join in the celebration :)
DeleteUnfortunately red wine doesn't agree with me! Cheers from Carole's Chatter!
ReplyDeleteCheers!
DeleteNever knew the word for "wine connoisseur. Like to pretend I'm a wine maker while reading novels.
ReplyDeleteThere is nothing more wonderful than enjoying a good book with a good glass of wine.
DeleteI didn't know any of this! Now I have to see if we have choices here in PA because I want to do a taste test of the new wines.
ReplyDeleteOoohh.... enjoy the taste test and then let me know what you think :)
DeleteI'm going to look for this for our Thanksgiving dinner,
ReplyDeleteIt pairs nicely with Turkey :) I hope you enjoy it!
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