Beaujolais Nouveau Est Arrive!

It's the 3rd Thursday of November and that marks the arrival of the 2005 Beaujolais Nouveau. For many, it's a day of celebration. The Beaujolais Nouveau phenomena started about a century ago with winemakers transporting barrels of new wine, which had barely finished fermenting, to Lyon. Despite its youth, this wine made from Gamay grapes was fruity, juicy and delicious, thanks to a process called carbonic maceration (still used to this day). It was not until after World War II that the popularity of Beaujolais Nouveau began to spread beyond its regional borders and into the Paris bistros and then finally reaching America. Typical retail price for a bottle is $9.99, but saavy shoppers should hit Wharehouse Wine & Spirits (735 Broadway btw Waverly & 8th St.) where all wines are discounted and the Beaujolais Nouveau typically runs about $6.99 for the first few weeks and then usually drops down to about $4.99. Many restaurants will be serving it as well, so go out and have yourself a glass! For a home party, pair it with some French cheeses (I recommend Camponzola) and pates (for vegitarians, a spinach & roquefort tourine is always a safe bet) from the newly expanded Murray's Cheese Shop in the heart of the Village!