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Wine glorious wine. Photo Ben Evans, © Whatsonwhen
When:
Nov 2009 (annual)
Where:
Beaujeu
Cost:
Free
Opening Hours:
Barrels open at midnight
The first wine of the year is released, to great fanfare, at midnight on the third Wednesday of November in the capital of Beaujolais territory, Beaujeu en Ligne.
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An event much anticipated by wine buffs the world over, the arrival of the Beaujolais Nouveau is cause for celebration in bars, restaurants and even out on the streets. Impromptu parties spring up all over France (and even on the internet) as Beaujolais fans get their first whiff of the new vintage.
It is in the birthplace of Beaujolais, however, that the celebrations are most impressive. The small town of Beaujeu, which gives its name to the red nectar, hosts a massive party known as the Sarmentelles in the run-up to midnight. Each year, thousands of locals are joined by guests from France and many other nations to taste the region's finest produce.
The name refers to barrowfuls of sarments (cuttings from grapevines) which are ceremonially burned prior to the unveiling of the new wine, as a homage to the hard work of the wine-growers. After a preliminary tasting of previous vintages, the massive barrels of Beaujolais Nouveau are pierced at midnight, releasing a torrent of wine for the thirsty masses.
According to local lore, Beaujolais Nouveau must be drunk before Christmas. Here's your chance to help empty the cellars.
It is in the birthplace of Beaujolais, however, that the celebrations are most impressive. The small town of Beaujeu, which gives its name to the red nectar, hosts a massive party known as the Sarmentelles in the run-up to midnight. Each year, thousands of locals are joined by guests from France and many other nations to taste the region's finest produce.
The name refers to barrowfuls of sarments (cuttings from grapevines) which are ceremonially burned prior to the unveiling of the new wine, as a homage to the hard work of the wine-growers. After a preliminary tasting of previous vintages, the massive barrels of Beaujolais Nouveau are pierced at midnight, releasing a torrent of wine for the thirsty masses.
According to local lore, Beaujolais Nouveau must be drunk before Christmas. Here's your chance to help empty the cellars.
Event details can change.
Please check with the organisers that the event is happening before making travel arrangements.
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