So you might be wondering (or not) what exactly is Beaujolais Nouveau Day?
Beaujolais Nouveau Day is an annual celebration dedicated to the release of a fresh, young wine from the Beaujolais region, just south of Burgundy in France. Though often thought of as Burgundy’s “younger sibling,” Beaujolais has its own distinctive character and reputation. And while the heart of the festivities is, of course, in France, celebrations take place all over the world, including here in the UK, where restaurants and wine shops will stock Beaujolais Nouveau on release day.
But when is it happening?
Mark your calendars for the third Thursday of November each year – that’s the official release day for Beaujolais Nouveau!
In 2024, Beaujolais Nouveau Day falls on Thursday, 21st November. And for those planning ahead, here are the release dates for the next few years:
- 2025: Thursday, 20th November
- 2026: Thursday, 19th November
- 2027: Thursday, 18th November
- 2028: Thursday, 16th November
How to Celebrate Beaujolais Nouveau Day in the UK?
Why not join in on the festivities? If you run a restaurant or pub, consider organising a themed event to bring the Beaujolais spirit to your guests! You could host a tasting night, serve French-inspired dishes paired with Beaujolais Nouveau, or even add some fun decorations to capture the essence of this lively celebration.
Many restaurants feature special Beaujolais menus for the day, so don’t miss out on the chance to offer a unique experience. If you prefer to celebrate at home, simply pick up a bottle from your local wine shop and toast to the new vintage with friends and family!
So, what are we drinking?
The wine itself, Beaujolais Nouveau, is crafted entirely from the Gamay grape, known for producing light-bodied, fresh, and fruity wines. This wine is distinctively young, typically harvested only a few weeks before it’s bottled and released. The result is a vibrant wine with bold flavours of red berries, hints of banana and pear, and a refreshing acidity that makes it easy to enjoy.
The winemaking process for Beaujolais Nouveau uses a method called carbonic maceration, which emphasizes fruity flavours and minimizes tannins, creating a very approachable wine that’s meant to be enjoyed young. For many, Beaujolais Nouveau Day marks the first taste of the current year’s vintage – a fun and festive preview of what the year’s wine has to offer!
Beaujolais Nouveau at EWGA Wines
Our selection this year includes two delightful options to help you celebrate:
Le Bistrot D’Aujoux
This classic Beaujolais Nouveau comes straight from the heart of the region. Nearly 40 years after the iconic Bistrot Aujoux label was first introduced, it’s been renewed with a fresh and stylish design, though it maintains the values of conviviality, sharing, and accessibility. It’s a juicy, easy-drinking wine with balanced acidity and delicate tannins, perfect for celebrating Beaujolais Nouveau Day.
Le Bouquet
Crafted by winemaker Robert Sarrau, ‘Le Bouquet’ is a traditional cuvée made without any added sulphur during vinification and bottling, allowing the wine’s natural aromas and flavors to shine. This is a young wine bursting with fresh fruit and floral notes, designed to be enjoyed while it’s vibrant and lively. Expect an array of fresh fruits, an elegant bouquet, and a pleasantly smooth mouthfeel.
What About Food Pairings?
Beaujolais Nouveau pairs wonderfully with a variety of foods. Its light body and fruity profile make it perfect for casual dishes like pizza, roasted chicken, charcuterie boards, or even classic French dishes like coq au vin. Feel free to experiment – Beaujolais Nouveau is all about easy enjoyment and celebration, so don’t be afraid to try new pairings that bring out its bright, youthful flavours.
To ensure you can celebrate on the day, pre-order today!
Under French law, Beaujolais Nouveau can officially be sold from 12:01 a.m. on the third Thursday of November, just a few weeks after harvest.
To get your bottles in time, place your orders with EWGA Wines by our deadline of 17th October. The wine must be carefully transported from the Beaujolais region, so pre-orders are essential to ensure timely arrival and availability.
To order email [email protected] or call 01524 737 100
We’re thrilled to bring you this year’s Beaujolais Nouveau and to celebrate another festive Beaujolais Nouveau Day with you!
