Where to Celebrate the Beaujolais Nouveau Release this Week

Beaujolais Nouveau is made from the Gamay (red) grape in France. Fermented only weeks before it's arrival on shelves, the release drives a lot of marketing and parties. Not a wine that you'd want to age, Beaujolais Nouveau is an early drinker with tons of bright fruit, sometimes even bubble gummy and bananas. There are hardly any tannins due to it's early age, being only bottled for 6-8 weeks after fermentation.

Granted, there are higher end Beaujolais that do have more admirable traits such as Beaujolais Village and Cru. Nouveau was invented mostly as a marketing ploy but hey, it works!

There are parties, tastings, dinners, etc all over town every year on the Wed/Thursday before Thanksgiving. Here is a simple lineup of this year's events:



Bistro du Coin, Dupont Circle
Wednesday, November 14th

One of the biggest parties in town is held at this popular French Bistro in Dupont. Why is it so popular? They clear out the tables, offer free and have a live DJ to blare house and French music. That's right, FREE wine. Get their early because lines form quickly.

1905, U Street
Wednesday, November 14th

5th Annual Get Beaujolaid by BYT is also on Wednesday night. Doors open at 10pm and free wine after midnight, the official release day of the 2012 Beaujolais. Sadly, this event has already sold-out but keep this in mind for next year. It's one of the biggest!

Central Michel Richard, Penn Quarter
Thursday, November 15th 5-10:30pm

If dinner and wine is more your style than all night partying, Central has a great option for you. French bistro specials including Beaujolais by the glass or bottle. They are also extending a 15% discount on any wine from the Burgundy region. Live jazz will accompany the food and wine from 6-10pm.

Le Chat Noir, Friendship Heights
Thursday, November 15th

Le Chat Noir is hosting a 3 course dinner with Beaujolais region inspiration. This menu is only $35.95. Enjoy Beaujolais Nouveau Day the way the French meant it to be, new fresh wine with a perfectly paired menu.

Slate Wine Bar, Glover Park
Thursday, November 15th

Want to just grab a glass? Visit newly opened Slate in Glover Park for special by the glass pricing ($8) and great cheese and nut pairings with this fresh new wine. No reservations necessary but the bar is first come first serve. You can find me relaxing with a glass here on Thursday.

French Embassy, Georgetown
Friday, November 16th

Beaujolais and Beyond features the popular Beaujolais Nouveau, food by local restaurants, dancing and more! Tickets are $55 for non-members or $95 including the hour-long VIP party beforehand. Party like the French this Beaujolais Nouveau Day.

Cheers to the 2012 Vintage of Beaujolais Nouveau!