Three “Nouveau” wines, all Beaujolais Nouveau from France, will be available at most Prince Edward Island Liquor Commission stores starting the morning of Thursday, November 18, 2004. The annual arrival of the Beaujolais Nouveau is one of the highlight’s of the year in the wine lover’s calendar.
The “Nouveau” wine tradition began many years ago in the vineyards of the Beaujolais region of France when local wine makers developed a quick maturing wine to celebrate the completion of the grape harvest with the workers. They called the new wine “Beaujolais Nouveau.”
Over the years, the annual release of the Beaujolais Nouveau, always on the third Thursday in November, has evolved into an international event. Apart from the fanfare, there are other reasons why Beaujolais Nouveau is so popular. It is as close to a white wine as a red wine can get. Due to the way it is made – the “must”
is pressed early after only three days – the phenolic compounds, in particular the astringent tannins, aren’t there, leaving an easy-to-drink, fruity wine. This, coupled with the fact that it tastes best when chilled, makes for a festive wine which should be enjoyed. It also makes a great transitional wine for anyone wanting to move from white to red wine. In addition, half the fun is knowing that on the same day/night, in homes, cafes, restaurants, pubs, bars and bistros around the world, the same celebration is taking place.
The three wines released this Thursday are very reasonable priced: Mommessin Beaujolais Nouveau @ $15.41, Drouhin Beaujolais Nouveau @ $16.38, and Chateau de Corton-Andre Beaujolais Nouveay @ $16.46.
As always, quantities of these wines are limited. Interested customers are advised to shop early to avoid disappointment. If the store nearest you does not carry these wines, please consult the manager and he/she will be pleased to acquire them for you.