Beaujolais Nouveau Day is November 21st!

We are 2 weeks away from one of our favorite wine holidays - Beaujolais Nouveau Day! 

Celebrating the end of harvest, this holiday originated in Beaujolais, France and takes place on the third Thursday of every November, aka 11/21. At 12:01 am, the celebration begins - in the vineyard, on the streets of France (with wine flowing straight from the barrels) and around the world!

What is Beaujolais Nouveau?

Beaujolais Nouveau is a red wine made from Gamay grapes grown in the Beaujolais region, just south of Burgundy, France. Unlike other wines that are aged before release, Beaujolais Nouveau is harvested, bottled and released in the same year! Wines are released typically six to eight weeks after the grapes are picked.

This quick timeline means the wines are fresh, fruity, and full of bright berry flavors. Think strawberries, raspberries, and nostalgic red candy flavors —no aging, no complex flavors, just a delicious, easy-drinking wine that’s meant to be enjoyed immediately.

Served chilled (to highlight its fresh flavors), these bright and cheery wines pair beautifully with cheese, charcuterie and Thanksgiving!

The tradition and celebration

Originally, Beaujolais Nouveau was a local wine, quickly bottled and served while winemakers waited for their other wines to ferment and age.

In 1985, the French government officially designated the third Thursday of November as Beaujolais Nouveau Day, sparking a worldwide phenomenon. Every year, winemakers race to ship their bottles to wine shops, bars, and restaurants around the world in time for the stroke of midnight, when people can officially pop the cork! (Fun Fact: It is illegal to sell a bottle of 2024 Beaujolais Nouveau before 12:01am on Nov 21!)

Why we're so excited!

Beaujolais Nouveau Day is more than just the wine itself—it’s a celebration!

1. Le Beaujolais Nouveau est arrivé! (“The new Beaujolais has arrived!”) - A resounding motto as towns in Beaujolais host vibrant parties through the night. Think parades, music, and fireworks! Around the world, 'Nouveau' parties, tastings, and “Beaujolais breakfasts” (yes, really!) bring a touch of French joie de vivre to every corner of the globe.
2. Accessible and Approachable: Beaujolais Nouveau is a wine that doesn't take itself too seriously. Beaujolais Nouveau is a “pop-and-pour” wine that doesn't require specific conditions (e.g., foods) to enjoy properly.
3. Perfect for Thanksgiving: Conveniently one week before Thanksgiving, this wine's light and fruity profile pairs beautifully with holiday dishes, from turkey and stuffing to cranberry sauce.
4. Nouveau: There's an inherent celebration of something exciting and new with this holiday. The wines are the first tasting of this year's harvest and the fresh, young, and simple vibes are like a breath of fresh air compared to traditionally aged and more 'serious' wines

How to celebrate (with us)!

Celebrating Beaujolais Nouveau Day is all about gathering with friends, sharing a glass, and enjoying the carefree spirit of the holiday.

This year we're featuring a 2024 Beaujolais Nouveau from Domaine de la Cadette! (👈 Click to order)

With all the must-have flavors of a Beaujolais Nouveau, we invite you to lean in on this French holiday! Pick up a few bottles, invite friends over, and set the mood with French music, and French-inspired nibbles like cheese, charcuterie, and baguettes!

Try it with a Thanksgiving feast or even casual foods like pizza. Its acidity and fruitiness go well with a wide range of dishes.

Le Beaujolais Nouveau est arrivé!