So Josh and I are a little late celebrating Beaujolais Nouveau this year, but because this is what we are doing as I write, then that is what we will be chatting about this week!
So who here is familiar with the fun that is Beaujolais Noveau?
Anyone?
Well, I wasn't until I started reading about the winemaking industry, and I have found this little tradition particularly entertaining...
Why? Check out the pic of our bottle below... Notice anything odd?
No, not my "Where's Waldo?" reflection in the glass. Take a closer gander at that bottle...
That's right peeps, this vintage is 2009.
As in the current year.
As in the grapes that were growing on the vines just a few months ago.
And if you still don't get it, maybe you should just spend your surfing time here. I think that will be a better fit... (I know it is for me on more than one occasion.)
Beaujolais Nouveau is made from Gamay grapes in the Beaujolais region of France. You have probably seen other Beaujolais wines, like Villages, which are basically the same grapes. The only difference is that Nouveau grapes that go through a special, quick fermentation that actually uses the whole fruit (they aren't pressed like normal wine). The grapes are picked by hand, fermented, bottled, and ready to drink within weeks.
Beaujolais Nouveau is always released for sale on the third Thursday of November and is often celebrated with parties and festivals. Nouveau is special in that you get to have that "first taste" of the current year's vintage, often a fun indicator of what vintages will be great as they are released in the years to come.
But you know what 2 things I love most about Nouveau?
First, it is meant to be consumed immediately... recommended within months (although most people open it right away).
Second, it is cheap! All of it! The general range is $8 - $12 per bottle. And you just can't beat that, my friends.
But if you want to enjoy this fun quirk of the wine industry, then grab it fast! 2009 is being hailed by wine critics as one of the best vintages ever of Beaujolais Nouveau. Wine people are gosh-darn excited about this year, so you should be too!
Now keep in mind, Nouveau is not meant to rival the finest wines in the world. The short fermentation leaves the wine very fruity, with higher acid and low tannins. The bottle we are sipping is a deep, dark pink color with a bright acidity and smooth notes of plum and strawberry jam. It is completely different from any other wine we drink, but that's half the fun!
Last serving note: If you pick up a bottle to enjoy yourself, let it chill the fridge about 20-30 minutes prior to serving. This is best served slightly chilled. Also, be sure to try it before you eat food and again while you dine. It can take on very different flavors with the introduction of food.
So enjoy this fun tradition! It is great for parties or a fun Christmas gift. And drink it fast, my friends; the clock's a tickin'.
Love ya'll! Mean it.
