I had my very first sip of Beaujolais Nouveau at my grandparents’ home over Thanksgiving in 1995. At the age of twenty-two, I wasn’t a fan of wine yet, and didn’t care for it. It wasn’t until my sister-in-law introduced me to all sorts of wine, that I developed a love. Today I look forward to every single glass. When my brother and sister-in-law come to Ohio to visit, there’s a good chance you will find us at a local vineyard.
Several years ago, while grocery shopping for Thanksgiving, I walked past a Beaujolais Nouveau kiosk. When I saw the name of the wine, all the memories from the 1995 Thanksgiving came rushing back. I remember my grandma and grandpa having fun saying “Beaujolais Nouveau” while sipping and chatting around the dining room table. I remember that Thanksgiving so well because it was one of the last Thanksgivings I spent with my grandparents.
When I saw the bottles of wine, I walked up to the kiosk and asked the lady working the stand, the story behind Beaujolais Nouveau. As I sampled the wine she filled me in on the history. I had no idea it was only available for a short period of time. It is released at midnight, on the third Thursday of November each year. Not only was I sold on the taste alone, but the wine brought back so many wonderful memories. Lucky for me, I stopped at the kiosk just in time, I was able to grab the last three bottles she had in stock. I have been buying this wine every year since.
After doing a little research, I learned the wine is made from Gamay grapes grown in the Beaujolais region of France and is released the same year as its harvest. Unlike most reds, this wine is best served chilled to bring out all the flavors – bright and fruity with notes of cherry, raspberry and strawberry…each years’ harvest may taste slightly different. Keep in mind, even though it’s a red wine, it should be treated like a white when pairing with food. Beaujolais Nouveau goes perfect with turkey and dressing!
The cost of a bottle runs from $10-$20. I always purchase Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau. This year a bottle cost $10.99 at my local grocery store. I should note, this wine should be consumed within a few months of purchase, unlike most wines.
Some people like to thumb their nose at this wine…I love it and think it’s absolutely delicious! More than anything, I love the memories this wine brings each year.
Denae Coates
My friend brought this over last night and it was delicious! It was so cool because I knew all about it from your blog! Thanks for sharing 🙂
Sherry
Thanks Mary! I am really wanting to try it. I don't remember having it before. I also love most wines so it shouldn't be a problem! I wonder if they carry it at Safeway. I went and read the article you linked to. Very interesting. I had no idea about this tradition. Where have I been?
Natalie @ NorthShore Days
This wine sounds awesome Mary, I wonder if we have it here – will investigate xxx
bakinginatornado
We're long time fans of Beaujolais Nouveau at our house too. We like heavier reds but this wine is just so smooth and fruity we can't resist each year. Glad to have found this post, I learned a few things I didn't know!