On the third Thursday of November, people around the world begin counting down. Beaujolais Nouveau release day. Even when I, Federico, was living in Italy, this day felt special — bars would post notices in their windows from morning, and everyone was waiting for night to fall. The 2026 release date is Thursday, November 19. Start planning now and you'll enjoy it all the more.
What Is Beaujolais Nouveau?
Beaujolais Nouveau is a young, fresh wine made from that year's harvest — primarily Gamay grapes — produced in the Beaujolais region in the south of Burgundy, France. Made using a technique called maceration carbonique, it delivers vibrant fruit flavors and a soft, easy-drinking style. It's a wine designed to get the harvest onto tables as quickly as possible, and its fruity, approachable character makes it a wonderful entry point for wine newcomers.
Why the Third Thursday of November?
The answer lies in a practical piece of history. Originally, Beaujolais Nouveau had a fixed release date of November 15. But when that date fell on a weekend, the transport workers who moved the wine took the day off, disrupting deliveries. In 1985, the date was changed to the third Thursday of November every year (per Suntory's official records). Since then, the release has been a globally synchronized event — in Japan, it means the wine appears on Thursday morning.
The Taste and How to Enjoy It
Beaujolais Nouveau is defined by its fresh red-fruit aromas — strawberry, cherry, banana — and its bright, lively acidity. Low in tannin and easy on the palate, it's made to be drunk young. Serve slightly cooler than a typical red, around 14-16 degrees. Sharing a glass with friends and family on release day is the quintessential experience, and it pairs well with a wide range of dishes.
Can't Wait for Release Day? Italy's Red, Right Now
If you want a fruit-forward wine to enjoy right now while you wait for November 19, let me suggest Doppio Passo Primitivo. Japan's first and exclusive import of this Puglian Primitivo offers rich aromas of berries and plum with an easygoing, fruity character. Its body is fuller than Beaujolais Nouveau, but its clean fruit and unpretentious style make it a wonderful everyday table wine — and it's in stock now.
Preparing for the 2026 Release
Reservation orders and limited bottles for Beaujolais Nouveau typically begin moving in October. Sign up for importer newsletters to get early access. On release day itself, wine bars and department stores across Japan host special events.
November 19, 2026 is the date to mark. In the meantime, warming up this autumn with Italian wine is a very fine way to get there.
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