Mark your calendars! Beaujolais Nouveau Day is coming up on Thursday, November 21st, and it’s the perfect excuse to dive into some delicious wine and celebrate in style. Celebrated each year on the third Thursday of November, this day honors the release of Beaujolais Nouveau—freshly made from that year’s Gamay harvest. The tradition began in the 1950s and was popularized by winemaker Georges Duboeuf, who turned the release of this young, fruity wine into an international celebration of fun and flavor. Whether you're a Beaujolais newbie or a Gamay-loving expert, here’s a quick list of ways to make the most of Beaujolais Nouveau Day.
1. Grab the “Gamazing” Hat
If you’re going to celebrate Beaujolais Nouveau, why not do it in style? The Wino Shop’s “Gamazing” hat, created in collaboration with Shitty Wine Memes, is the perfect accessory for this day. This isn’t just any hat; it’s a playful tribute to all things Gamay, designed to help you look fabulous while celebrating one of the year's most lighthearted wine releases. And thanks to our collab, the hat brings a dose of humor and fun to your wardrobe—perfect for wine lovers who don’t take themselves too seriously. Grab your hat here and let everyone know that Gamay is here to play!
2. Find a Local Celebration
Beaujolais Nouveau Day isn’t just a solo sipping experience. Many local wine shops, bars, and restaurants throw their own Beaujolais parties, complete with themed decor, food pairings, and tastings of both Beaujolais Nouveau and other wines from the region. Check out your favorite wine spots or give them a call to see if they have any Beaujolais Nouveau events planned. It’s a great way to meet fellow wine lovers and raise a glass to the latest harvest.
3. Don’t Forget About Cru Beaujolais
Beaujolais is more than just the light and fruity Nouveau. The region also has ten “crus,” which are areas known for crafting higher-quality, more structured wines that showcase just how complex and beautiful Gamay can be. This Beaujolais Nouveau Day, don’t forget to try some Cru Beaujolais too! These wines are aged a bit longer and offer richer flavors than the young Nouveau—think of them as the refined older siblings of Beaujolais Nouveau. And, of course, you can pick up our Cru Beaujolais Tee to sip something cozy and delicious with all that wine.
4. Create a Beaujolais-Themed Cheese Board
What pairs better with a fresh Beaujolais than a carefully curated cheese board? This wine loves food, especially creamy cheeses, charcuterie, and light bites. Some top picks include brie, camembert, or a mild blue cheese. Add some crusty baguette slices, dried fruits, and maybe a bit of dark chocolate to complete the spread. Invite some friends over, pour the wine, and enjoy a night of laid-back sips and snacks.
5. Stock Up for Thanksgiving
Since Beaujolais Nouveau pairs perfectly with Thanksgiving dishes, why not grab a few extra bottles to share with friends and family at the holiday table? Its light body and fresh, fruity flavor make it a great match for roasted turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce without overpowering the meal. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to sip alongside all your favorite Thanksgiving bites.
So, whether you're rocking a “Gamazing” hat, trying a Cru Beaujolais, or simply gathering some friends to toast with this year's Beaujolais Nouveau, there are plenty of ways to make November 21st a little more special. Cheers to Gamay, celebration, and a new favorite wine holiday!