Beaujolais Nouveau: Date et Infos
Beaujolais Nouveau. The name conjures images of crisp autumn air, lively celebrations, and a youthful, fruity wine. But when exactly is Beaujolais Nouveau released, and what makes it so special? This article will provide you with all the essential date and information you need to know about this unique French wine.
What is Beaujolais Nouveau?
Beaujolais Nouveau is a light-bodied red wine made from the Gamay grape, grown in the Beaujolais region of France. What sets it apart isn't just its taste profile – characterized by bright acidity, low tannins, and fruity aromas of banana, cherry, and sometimes a hint of bubblegum – but its incredibly rapid production. Unlike most wines that age for months or even years, Beaujolais Nouveau is released just a few weeks after the harvest, employing a carbonic maceration technique that allows for a quick fermentation. This gives it its characteristic fresh, fruity character.
The Beaujolais Nouveau Release Date: A Yearly Tradition
The key date for Beaujolais Nouveau enthusiasts is the third Thursday of November. This is the day when the wine is officially released worldwide, marking the start of the Beaujolais Nouveau season. It's a globally celebrated event, with festivities and tastings held in many countries. The exact date changes each year, of course, falling on a different Thursday in November.
Finding the Release Date for Your Year:
While the third Thursday of November is the rule, it's always a good idea to double-check the specific date for the year you're interested in. A simple online search for "Beaujolais Nouveau release date [year]" will give you the precise day.
Beyond the Date: Understanding Beaujolais Nouveau
While the release date is a significant part of the Beaujolais Nouveau experience, there's more to understand about this wine:
The Taste Profile:
As mentioned earlier, Beaujolais Nouveau is known for its light body, high acidity, and low tannins. Its fruity aromas make it a very approachable wine, perfect for casual gatherings and celebrations.
Serving Suggestions:
Its youthful character makes it excellent as an apéritif, or paired with lighter dishes. Think charcuterie boards, salads, pizzas, and even some Asian-inspired cuisine. Its freshness makes it a delightful accompaniment to a wide range of foods.
Storage and Enjoyment:
Beaujolais Nouveau is not meant for long-term aging. It’s best enjoyed young, within a few months of its release date, to fully appreciate its vibrant fruit flavors. Store it cool and dark, and avoid excessive temperature fluctuations.
Beaujolais Nouveau: A Celebration of the Harvest
The release of Beaujolais Nouveau is more than just the arrival of a new wine; it's a celebration of the harvest and a moment of shared enjoyment. The anticipation leading up to the third Thursday of November, followed by the simultaneous release across the globe, creates a unique and exciting event for wine lovers worldwide. So, mark your calendars, and prepare to raise a glass to this special occasion!