Beaujolais is a wine region in the southern most part of France.  Wines from this region are almost exclusively made from the gamay varietal, which is a resilient grape that can be produced in abundance. The Region produces mostly inexpensive, simple reds. 

Beaujolais Nouveau is designed for consumption within weeks of the region’s harvest. The wine is not aged, It’s light and fruity, and it’s as simple as a red wine can get. Traditionally the wine was tasted after harvest to get an idea of what the vintage will be like. Now it’s annual release, the third Thursday of November, coincides with American Thanksgiving, and pairs conveniently well with our smorgasbord of holiday foods.

Beaujolais Nouveau is limited, usually wine shops get enough in to last through the end of the holidays. But once it’s gone, it’s gone until the following November sees the next vintage.

I stopped by Gates this afternoon, and tried the 2010 George Dubeouf Nouveau. I liked it, surprisingly. The last vintage was straight up watery. I’m not going to lie, it is what it is: an unoaked, unaged, fruity red. If you like robust cabs, jammy zins, spicey granache - don’t get this wine. If you want something light and versatile to go with turkey, stuffing, potatoes, cranberries, etc - give it a try!