Everything you need to know about Beaujolais nouveau

Beaujolais Nouveau Has Arrived!

This is an unmissable phrase for the month of November. Indeed, every third Thursday in November, a global event takes place: the release of the new vintage of Beaujolais Nouveau. The ultimate convivial red wine, Beaujolais Nouveau is renowned for its fruity character and indulgent aromas, though some critics complain about its distinctive banana flavor! Follow our guide to uncover all the secrets of this iconic new wine, and discover our tips for creating the best food and wine pairings with Beaujolais Nouveau.

History of Beaujolais Nouveau

The story of Beaujolais Nouveau began in 1951, following a decree that prohibited the commercialization of wines before December 15 (of the harvest year). Outraged by this decision, the Beaujolais winemakers, who had become accustomed to releasing their wines before this date, organized themselves into the Beaujolais Wine Union. Facing pressure from Beaujolais winemakers, the authorities eventually agreed but imposed the label "Nouveau" on the bottles. This is where Beaujolais Nouveau officially began!

After fluctuating over time, the official release date has been set since 1985 to the third Thursday of November. Each year, the release of Beaujolais Nouveau is a true event, celebrated both in France and Japan! The global success of this new wine appellation is undoubtedly linked to its festive, convivial image and affordable price.

How is Beaujolais Nouveau Made?

Beaujolais Nouveau is a new wine produced in the Beaujolais vineyard. But before we proceed, what is a new wine? The answer is simple: it is a young wine made right after the harvest, intended to be marketed and consumed in the following months. In the case of Beaujolais Nouveau, this designation must be produced within the controlled origin appellations AOC Beaujolais and AOC Beaujolais-Villages.

The only grape variety allowed for its production is Gamay Noir à Jus Blanc, the quintessential red grape of the region, used for both new wines and prestigious crus like AOC Morgon or AOC Moulin à Vent. Another distinctive feature of Beaujolais Nouveau is the use of a winemaking method typical of Beaujolais: carbonic maceration. This technique involves placing whole, uncrushed, and unstemmed grape clusters into an airtight tank saturated with CO2 to induce intracellular fermentation. The grapes ferment inside their skins for about ten days before being pressed. This imparts a fresh and fruity character to Beaujolais Nouveau.

The Best Food Pairings with Beaujolais Nouveau

Who says you must always serve red wine with food? Sometimes a bottle of Beaujolais Nouveau is perfect on its own! However, you'll enjoy a Beaujolais Nouveau even more when paired with a good charcuterie platter and a group of friends!

If you prefer to continue dining, consider pairing Beaujolais Nouveau with dishes like creamy chicken or Lyonnais brioche sausage. The red fruit notes and the wine’s smooth texture will surely complement these bistro-style dishes.

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FAQ - Beaujolais nouveau

When is Beaujolais nouveau released?

Since 1985, Beaujolais nouveau has officially been released on the third Thursday of November. This fixed date is a festive event celebrated every year in France and as far as Japan.

Which grape is Beaujolais nouveau made from?

The only grape allowed is gamay noir à jus blanc, the region's signature red variety. It is used for young wines as well as prestigious crus such as Morgon or Moulin-à-Vent.

Why does Beaujolais nouveau taste of banana?

These aromas come from carbonic maceration, the winemaking method typical of Beaujolais. Whole clusters ferment in a CO2-saturated tank, developing very fruity notes sometimes likened to banana.

What is a young wine like Beaujolais nouveau?

A young wine is made right after the harvest to be sold and enjoyed within the following months. Beaujolais nouveau must be produced within the AOC Beaujolais and Beaujolais-Villages appellations.

What food pairs well with Beaujolais nouveau?

Light and low in tannins, it is perfect with a charcuterie platter among friends. At the table it works with creamy chicken or Lyonnais brioche sausage, highlighting its red fruit notes.