Beaujolais Nouveau - The History & The Hype
Beaujolais Nouveau started as a local celebration, a way for winemakers to sell the first wine of the harvest and bring in a little cash before year’s end.
By the 1980s, clever marketing had turned it into a worldwide phenomenon. Bars in Paris threw all-night parties, bottles were raced to London and Tokyo, and the cry “Le Beaujolais est arrivé!” became a November ritual.
Fun? Absolutely. But the frenzy often hides the real story of Beaujolais.
The Real Story: Quality & Tradition
Winemakers like Jean-Paul Brun and the Bret Brothers have already moved away from the Beaujolais Nouveau model because it doesn’t represent what the region can achieve. In reality, Beaujolais has long been the “black sheep” of Burgundy, overshadowed by the glamour of Pinot Noir.
Over the last eight years, the region has seen a renaissance. Beaujolais wines now feature ripe fruit, fine structure, and freshness, the very style consumers are seeking, according to Decanter Magazine.
Explore the Crus
While Beaujolais Nouveau captures attention for a few short weeks, the region’s most exciting wines are quietly made with patience and care.
To the south: Juicy, joyful reds from Gamay are full of freshness and charm.
To the north: The famous Beaujolais crus, Morgon, Moulin-à-Vent, Fleurie, Chiroubles, Saint-Amour, now rival Burgundy for depth and complexity, yet remain refreshingly affordable.
At Wines Direct, we celebrate winemakers who take their time. Producers like Jean-Paul Brun (Terres Dorées) and Bret Brothers craft wines from old vines on granite soils, producing bottles of true character and finesse.
So yes, enjoy the fun of Beaujolais Nouveau parties, but when you’re ready to taste the wines that truly show what this region can achieve, skip the hype and discover the real Beaujolais.