The Beaujolais Nouveau: Traditions, History and Experiences Around Wine

A French celebration that became a global phenomenon

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Every year, on the third Thursday of November, France vibrates to the rhythm of a tradition that is at once popular, convivial and deeply rooted in its heritage: the arrival of Beaujolais Nouveau.
In bars, wine cellars, estates and even in many countries around the world, people open the first bottles of a young, fruity and vibrant wine, celebrated as a symbol of sharing.

But where does this tradition really come from?
Why is Beaujolais Nouveau so fascinating?
And above all: how can you turn it into a unique travel experience, even if you missed the official celebration night?

Welcome to a journey through terroir, history, anecdotes and travel ideas.

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A bit of history: from a local custom… to a national and global phenomenon

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Contrary to what one might imagine, the Beaujolais Nouveau celebration has not always existed.

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🍇 Before 1945: a purely local tradition

Until World War II, the primeur wine of Beaujolais was consumed locally, directly at the estate, just after fermentation.
Locals and winemakers tasted this young wine to judge the quality of the vintage — a simple and convivial ritual.

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🚂 1945 and the post-war years: the arrival of Beaujolais in Paris

When Parisians who had taken refuge in the south during the war returned to Paris, they brought back with them the tradition of the “new wine.”
It was a decisive moment: Beaujolais left its home region to conquer the capital.

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📅 1951: a key date

A decree in 1951 officially authorised the sale of “Beaujolais Nouveau” before December 15.
The phenomenon began to take shape.

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🏁 1950s–1970s: the “races” to Paris and media frenzy

Winemakers and wine merchants challenged each other:
who would get their Beaujolais to Paris the fastest?
Newspapers reported on it, bars played along, and a festive atmosphere took hold.
In the 1970s, the iconic slogan appeared:

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“Le Beaujolais nouveau est arrivé!” — “Beaujolais Nouveau has arrived!”

The celebration became national, then global.
Today, Beaujolais Nouveau is celebrated in over 110 countries, from Japan to Canada.

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Today’s tradition: a lively, joyful and gourmet celebration

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Even if you can't be there on the official date, no problem:
👉 Beaujolais Nouveau can be enjoyed throughout late November and early December, everywhere in France.

Even if you missed the first tapping of the barrels, you can still:

• taste the new vintage in bars and restaurants,
• visit wine shops offering tastings,
• make it part of your late-year weekends and trips.

Beyond the official date, Beaujolais Nouveau is an atmosphere, a season, a convivial moment that lasts several weeks.

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Beaujolais Nouveau in numbers

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• ~15 to 16 million bottles released each year (recent figures).
• Available in more than 110 countries.
• Often tasted first in Japan, thanks to the time difference.
• Represents about ⅓ of total Beaujolais production.

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The grape variety at the heart of Beaujolais: Gamay

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Beaujolais Nouveau is made exclusively from Gamay noir à jus blanc.
A unique, very fruity grape known for:

• red berry aromas (strawberry, cherry, raspberry),
• banana and candy notes (a signature of the nouveau style),
• natural freshness,
• its ability to ferment quickly.

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Carbonic maceration: a winemaking style unique in the world

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The secret of Beaujolais Nouveau lies in its winemaking method.

🍇 Carbonic maceration (the Beaujolais Nouveau method)

• Whole grape clusters are placed in an airtight tank.
• CO₂ is injected.
• Fermentation begins inside the berry itself, without pressing.

Result:

• very fruity aromas,
• low tannins,
• a smooth, light, easy-drinking wine.

🍷 Traditional method (classic winemaking)

• Grapes are crushed or pressed.
• Fermentation takes place with juice, skins and seeds.

Result:

• more structure,
• higher tannins,
• more complex aromas.

💡 Beaujolais Nouveau is a wine meant for immediate pleasure, to be enjoyed young, while its freshness is at its peak.

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What to see in Beaujolais? The golden villages and the heart of the wine region

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Even if you’re not visiting during the official celebration, the region is stunning all autumn and early winter.

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🌞 The “golden villages”

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Built from ochre stone, they take on a golden glow at sunset: Oingt (listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France), Ternand, Theizé, Alix, Charnay, Bagnols, Belmont-d’Azergues

Perfect for:

• photography
• scenic walks
• romantic weekends
• wine estate visits

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Food pairings with Beaujolais Nouveau: what to eat with it?

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Beaujolais Nouveau is the perfect wine for:
✨ simple dishes,
✨ convivial moments,
✨ meals with friends or family.

🍽️ Delicious pairing ideas:

• Lyon-style saucisson
• Local charcuterie
• Mild cheeses: tomme, Saint-Marcellin, fresh goat cheese
• Roast chicken
• Onion tart
• Light Asian cuisine (yes — it works wonderfully!)
• Vegetarian dishes: quiches, gratins, pan-fried vegetables
• Roasted chestnuts (perfect in November)

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Travelling around Beaujolais Nouveau (even after the celebration)

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Even if you couldn’t be there on the third Thursday of November:

💡 Late November to early December is the best time to taste it across France:

• in local bars and bistros,
• in wine shops,
• during weekend getaways,
• while planning winter festive trips,
• or even at Christmas markets (where it often makes an appearance!).

Beaujolais Nouveau becomes a delicious excuse to travel, rediscover French cities and savour the season.

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And to extend the experience, OIQIA accommodations welcome you in more than 30 destinations, perfect for cultural and gourmet escapes.

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Conclusion: a tradition, a wine, an experience to live

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Beaujolais Nouveau is not just a wine.
It is a celebration, a symbol, a shared moment… and an invitation to explore a beautiful region.

Whether you’re a wine lover, a history enthusiast or simply seeking a joyful moment, November and December are the perfect months to discover the new vintage — wherever you are in France.

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Cheers — and happy discoveries! 🍷✨

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