What is Beaujolais Nouveau Day All About?

Every year on the third Thursday of November, wine enthusiasts around the world mark Beaujolais Nouveau Day, the release of the first wine of the season. Under French law, this fresh, youthful wine can only be released starting at 12:01 a.m. on this special day, creating a worldwide moment of celebration and anticipation.

This year, Beaujolais Nouveau Day took place on Thursday, November 21, 2024, and we’re reflecting on this unique tradition and how it fits into seasonal gatherings.

2024 Release Now Available

Order 2024 Beaujolais Nouveau now! Pickup is available, just in time to make your Thanksgiving celebrations extra special. This wine is crafted to be enjoyed fresh, so don’t wait—savor it as soon as it’s released!

A Young and Fruity Palate

Beaujolais Nouveau is a young, fresh, and fruity red wine with low tannins, made from Gamay grapes grown in the Beaujolais region of France. The wine is released just weeks after the harvest, making it incredibly youthful and perfect for immediate enjoyment. It’s meant to be consumed soon after release, which is why it is such a celebratory wine.

Beaujolais Nouveau is pronounced "boh-zhuh-lei noo-voh."

Beaujolais Nouveau Day itself is a celebration of the harvest season, with festivals and feasts that honor the wine’s release. It’s a tradition that brings together wine lovers from all over the world, celebrating a shared appreciation for something fresh, simple, and joyful.

Interesting Facts About Beaujolais Nouveau

1. Harvest by Hand: By law, all Beaujolais Nouveau grapes must be picked by hand.
2. A Small but Mighty Region: The Beaujolais region is compact, stretching just 34 miles long and roughly eight miles wide.
3. A Festive Tradition: Over 120 festivals are held in the Beaujolais region each year to celebrate the wine’s release.
4. Global Reach: Japan is the largest importer of Beaujolais Nouveau, with Germany and the United States close behind.
5. A Storied Producer: Georges Duboeuf, one of the wine’s most famous producers, is often called the “King of Beaujolais.”

Seasonal Pairing

While Beaujolais Nouveau Day celebrates the start of the season, the wine itself is a natural fit for Thanksgiving meals. Its bright, fresh flavors pair beautifully with roasted turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing, and roasted vegetables. You can pick out your favorite bites from our Holiday Recipe Book, which features classic dishes and beverages perfect for Thanksgiving through New Years! 

A Wine to Share

Beaujolais Nouveau is all about celebration. Whether you enjoy it during a Thanksgiving meal, or open a bottle with friends just because, it’s a wine that invites connection and enjoyment.

This beloved tradition reminds us to appreciate the little things: the changing seasons, good food, and the joy of sharing something special with the people we care about. Cheers to that!