Gamay Grapes |
But what
began as a fad wine in the 1960s morphed into a cult wine for the 1980s and
beyond. Wine critics won't give it much press, saying it's
a gimmick fashioned mostly by French wine producer (of Beaujolais Nouveau, of course) Georges
Duboeuf.
Georges Duboeuf |
In
1985, the date of release was legally changed to the third Thursday in November
to take advantage of the holidays.
Carbonic Maceration Occurring |
Beaujolais
Nouveau is unique in that the grapes are harvested and tossed in fermentation
tanks without an official crush allowing for fermentation on the skins and a
flavorful wine. After only 6 to 8 weeks of carbonic maceration
fermentation, the wine is bottled and shipped. The purplish-red color, light
body, and very fruit-forward flavors only add to the mass appeal.
While
wine critics don’t rave about it, many wine lovers do, lining up to purchase
the limited number of cases at wine shops across the world, just in time for
the holidays.
Each
vintage tastes differently but generally you can expect the flavors of strawberry, cherry, and red raspberry in a bright, fresh wine that’s easy to
drink, and fun to pair with holiday foods. (Think turkey, ham, and cranberry
sauce.)
Beaujolais
Nouveau is indeed a party in a bottle and you’ll see lots of festive
decorations surrounding it in the liquor stores. Just remember, it’s meant to be enjoyed NOW. And unlike
most red wines, this one will become more enjoyable if chilled for 20 – 30
minutes before serving. If you forget to cool it down, just add a
few ice cubes!
Beaujolais Nouveau |
Remember,
this is supposed to be fun, so put aside any preconceived notions, kick
back and enjoy this wine with friends because Beaujolais Nouveau will be gone
very soon!
And then you may find yourself waiting another year for that third Thursday in November…
And then you may find yourself waiting another year for that third Thursday in November…
~ Joy
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