Wine drinkers around the world eagerly anticipate this highly celebrated event in the annual wine calendar - Beaujolais Nouveau Day, celebrated on the third Thursday of November.
This is a day which is not only seen as a celebration of the end of harvest but also a festival steeped in French winemaking culture and tradition. Beaujolais Nouveau Day taps into a sense of occasion and creates the perfect opportunity to raise a glass, toast a new vintage but also a chance to celebrate those involved in bringing the wines to us, the customer.
Right at the forefront of this celebration is Georges Duboeuf, a name synonymous with Beaujolais Nouveau, who has played a pivotal role in popularising this unique style. Beaujolais Nouveau is distinguished by its striking cherry-red colour and is known for its refreshing, light-bodied character.
What makes this wine particularly special is its rapid fermentation and vinification process. As the grapes are harvested in late September, the juice is quickly fermented, a technique called carbonic maceration is used, which enhances the fruity flavours and aromas. Bright and fun, it’s best served slightly chilled. This quick production allows the wine to be released just weeks after harvest.
Unlike many wines that often improve with age Beaujolais Nouveau is made to be enjoyed immediately. For wine drinkers who enjoy the complexity of aged wines, Beaujolais Nouveau will seem simplistic. But that’s the point, it appeals to a broader audience with its easy-drinking style, making it an accessible choice for everyone. The emphasis is definitely on FUN!
Each year, Beaujolais Nouveau Day becomes a joyful occasion filled with local festivities in France. The wine is officially released at 12:01am on the 21st of November and from that moment on, parties erupt throughout France and beyond. People gather in bistros, wine bars, and homes to raise their glasses and toast to the harvest.
Georges Duboeuf, often dubbed the “King of Beaujolais,” has championed this young wine since the 1960s. His passion for promoting the Beaujolais region and its wines has helped to solidify the global significance of Beaujolais Nouveau. Duboeuf's label and name is recognised for its quality and consistency, making it a preferred choice for many wine drinkers and we are delighted to have it within our portfolio. This year the anticipation surrounding the release of Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau is palpable, as both newcomers and seasoned Beaujolais drinkers alike look forward to discovering this year's vintage.
Fundamentally, the joy of Beaujolais Nouveau lies not just in the wine itself but in the celebration of life, connection, and the joy of drinking wine with friends. See you on the 21st to celebrate Beaujolais Nouveau day. Cheers!
