Something Old, Something Nouveau
While the rest of the country was busy ringing out the old this past election day, our buyers were waiting anxiously for the return of something...well, nouveau. Today we’re excited to say “Ils sont arrivés”―2020 Beaujolais Nouveau is just days away from landing stateside! This year, we’re thrilled to welcome back two of our favorite Bojo Nouveau producers—Domaine Rochette & Vignobles Bulliat. Read on to learn more about these celebratory, seasonal reds and click here to pre-order yours before 11/18. Orders begin shipping on Beaujolais Nouveau Day, 11/19!
Beaujolais Nouveau has something of a Cinderella story in the world of wine. Traditionally, locals in this southern part of Burgundy drank these young, fruit-forward wines to celebrate the end of each hard-won wine harvest. The tradition was gobbled up and marketed worldwide, and by the 1980s had become a punchline that tainted the reputation of austerity often associated with the Burgundy, and specifically Beaujolais. Then something funny happened. The natural wine movement exploded, touting wines that were fresh and made with little fuss and even less winemaker intervention. The original charm of Beaujolais Nouveau suddenly made sense, and Beaujolais vignerons that practiced sustainable winemaking moved seamlessly into the rejuvenated Beaujolais Nouveau game, creating bright, fruity wines that were irresistible and in perfect harmony with their philosophies.
Domaine Rochette
Founded in 1981, Domaine Rochette helmed by a family that has been producing wine for generations. Today the family farms 15 hectares of Gamay in Lantignié, just over the northwestern border of the Cru of Régnié. In fact, Lantignié is considered one of the villages that would be in line to elevate to Cru status should the region consider adding another. Our buyers scored a limited supply of this critical darling, and at $16 per bottle it won't last long. This 2020 Beaujolais Nouveau is soft and fruity, perfect for any virtual occasion or tableside with loved ones. It's easy to drink and easier to love.
Vignobles Bulliat
Vignobles Bulliat started with 4 hectares purchased by Noël Bulliat after he finished viticultural college in 1978. Today, the estate reaches across 27 hectares in the very heart of Beaujolais. Utilizing climate-friendly techniques, the domaine has been certified organic since 2010. All of the grapes are hand harvested and the extra care in the winemaking shines beautifully through in the final product. The Vignobles Bulliat 2020 Beaujolais Nouveau is delivers lush red fruits like strawberry, raspberry and cherry. Soft and fruitful this bright, easygoing wine is best served with a slight chill and pairs immaculately with roast pork, sausage or turkey and any type of soft cheese.
“When in doubt, Beaujolais,” wrote Eric Asimov in The New York Times. He had a point. Flavorful and fresh, with balanced acidity and light spice, these Nouveau selection offer the perfect finishing touches to your holiday table. Bring on the turkey, stuffing, friends, family—these wines can handle it all!