The word 'Beaujolais' identifies the geographical origin of the wine, a wine region in the southern part of Burgundy, France. The word "nouveau" practically means fresh, without ripening or aging, but it also specifies the production method by which the grapes are placed whole in tanks and fermented whole, resulting in a light wine with an intensely fruity taste. The nouveau is drunk chilled and has a shelf life of about until Easter. Beaujolais nouveau comes from the red variety Gamay, the cultivation of which dates back to the Middle Ages in this region.

Although the tradition of drinking fresh wines dates back to the 19th century, in 1951, as an exception to the current legislation, Beaujolais winemakers gained the right to be the first to put their wine on the market in November. Celebrations and festivals are organized in the region for this event and over the years the "Beaujolais nouveau product" acquires a national identity. Since 1985, its appearance has been established every 3rd Thursday of November and it conquers the markets all over the world. Hysteria grips Japanese consumers, as the time difference gives them the privilege of being the first to try the new crop!

The bottom line is that it's a celebration of wine that needs nothing more than a good mood to enjoy. In 2022 the beaujolais nouveau opens on Thursday the 17th. The prices of a quality beaujolais range from €9-15. The Beaujolais Nouveau that we chose at TopGreekWines.gr is from Vignerons De Bel-Air and the fetish is one of the best of recent years. It costs around €10 and we estimate that it will be available by the beginning of December.