Every November, a tidal wave of French flair (and wine!) crashes onto shores around the world. The cause? Beaujolais Nouveau Day, the unofficial “party wine” holiday that’s as deeply traditional as it is famously lighthearted. This celebration began decades ago in Beaujolais, a small French region just north of Lyon, where vintners would share their new wines to celebrate the autumn harvest. What began as a local custom has evolved into a global wine celebration, observed on the third Thursday of November (November 21st this year). It’s one of the world’s biggest wine parties, with bottles popping from Paris to Tokyo.
What is Beaujolais Nouveau?
Beaujolais Nouveau is a fresh, young red wine made from Gamay grapes, aged for just a few weeks before hitting the shelves. The result? A wine that’s delightfully light and fruity, with flavors of cherries, strawberries, and even a hint of banana. With its low tannins and refreshing character, Beaujolais Nouveau is as “serious” as a confetti cannon—meant to be enjoyed now, not stashed away in a dusty cellar. So for those of you planning your Thanksgiving dinner in the next couple of weeks, consider your wine selection solved.
In the U.S., Beaujolais Nouveau Day is the perfect reason for French and Francophile communities to raise their glasses and enjoy a taste of French culture. In California, with its vibrant French enclaves and wine-loving spirit, the celebration stretches from Lake Tahoe to Los Angeles. There’s no shortage of places to toast Beaujolais Nouveau in 2024, so whether you’re a devoted Francophile or simply a wine lover, you’ll find events to match your taste. From Lake Tahoe to Santa Monica, the Beaujolais will be flowing, and the festivities will be in full swing.
Ready to join the fun? Check out Frenchly’s roundup of the best Beaujolais Nouveau and Beaujolais-themed celebrations in California this year. Whether you’re after wild parties, cozy tastings, or Michelin-star experiences, there’s something to suit every celebration style.
Beaujolais Nouveau 2024 Events
Lake Tahoe
Beaujolais Nouveau Tasting at The Pour House
Truckee, Lake Tahoe, CA
Date: Thursday, November 21, 2024
Time: 4:00 PM
Even in the remote beauty of Lake Tahoe, French wine lovers don’t miss a beat when it comes to Beaujolais Nouveau Day. The Pour House in Truckee is hosting a special tasting event to welcome the release of this year’s Beaujolais Nouveau, bringing a touch of French tradition to the mountains. Nestled in the cozy, laid-back ambiance of this beloved local wine shop, guests can savor the fresh, fruit-forward flavors of the season’s first wine, along with small bites and good company. The Pour House’s knowledgeable staff will guide you through each glass, creating an evening that’s as educational as it is festive. Whether you’re a Tahoe local or just passing through, this is the perfect chance to enjoy a cherished French tradition in a truly unique setting.
Price: $20 per person
More details here
Napa Valley and Sonoma
Napa Valley Wine Academy: Beaujolais Nouveau Master Class
Napa, CA
Date: Saturday, November 23, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM
Take an immersive dive into the Beaujolais region with Master of Wine Peter Marks, whose expertise will guide you through Beaujolais Nouveau alongside from of the finest appellations of the region. This intimate, hands-on class will include insights into the terroirs that make each Cru unique, as well as a tasting of highly regarded Beaujolais wines, from the Nouveau’s bright fruit to the structured elegance of a Morgon or Moulin-à-Vent. Limited to just 14 guests, this master class is ideal for wine lovers eager to expand their understanding of Beaujolais.
Price: $129 per person
More details and tickets here
Bouchon Bistro
Yountville, CA
Date: Thursday, November 21 – Sunday, November 24, 2024
Time: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Step into the lively, timeless charm of Bouchon Bistro in Yountville and join the fête for this year’s Beaujolais Nouveau release! From Thursday, November 21, to Sunday, November 24, Bouchon invites you to celebrate the season with an optional three-course prix fixe menu, thoughtfully crafted to pair perfectly with fresh, vibrant Beaujolais Nouveau and refined Cru Beaujolais selections. Available for both lunch and dinner, this limited-time menu brings a touch of festive French tradition to Napa Valley, with each course showcasing the playful flavors of this year’s vintage.
Price: À la carte
More details and tickets here
La Crema Estate’s Red Nouveau Release Celebration
Windsor, Sonoma, CA
Date: Sunday, November 24, 2024
Time: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
La Crema Estate brings a California twist to the Beaujolais Nouveau tradition with their own “Red Nouveau” release. Guests can enjoy French-inspired fare, including baguettes and Brie, live French music, and tastings of La Crema’s young, fresh red wine crafted in the Nouveau style. The event’s Sonoma vineyard setting offers a beautiful backdrop for sipping and mingling, evoking the feel of a French harvest festival.
Price: $20 per person
More details and tickets here
San Francisco Bay Area
Amelie Wine Bar’s Cru Beaujolais Party
San Francisco, CA
Date: Thursday, November 21, 2024
Time: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Happy Hour 4:00 – 6:00 PM)
Beaujolais isn’t just about Nouveau! To celebrate the full range of this vibrant French wine region, San Francisco’s iconic Amelie Wine Bar is hosting a special “Cru Beaujolais Party,” showcasing an exceptional selection of all 10 Cru Beaujolais wines. Guests can create their own tasting experience with three curated flights for just $15, perfectly paired with Amelie’s special event menu and signature bites. The atmosphere will be lively and festive, with DJ Flo spinning tunes straight from Parisian playlists, setting the perfect French ambiance. Reservations are encouraged for dinner, but walk-ins are always welcome. Arrive early to snag a prime spot and enjoy happy hour deals, before diving into an unforgettable Beaujolais journey.
Price: À la carte
More details and reservation here
Lazy Bear: A Michelin-Starred Beaujolais Nouveau & Vieux Dinner
San Francisco, CA
Date: Thursday, November 21, 2024
Time: 8:00 PM
Beaujolais Nouveau takes a seat at the prestigious Lazy Bear, a Michelin-starred dining experience where the evening’s focus will be on both young and aged Beaujolais wines. This exclusive dinner will feature a thoughtfully curated selection of Beaujolais Nouveau and aged Cru Beaujolais wines from esteemed producers like Lapierre, Foillard, and Breton, perfectly paired with French-inspired bites. Lazy Bear’s communal table setting and immersive approach create an atmosphere as unforgettable as the wines.
Price: $165 per person
More information and reservations here
Beaujolais Nouveau Dinner at Zazie
San Francisco, CA
Date: Thursday, November 21, 2024
Time: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Zazie, the beloved Parisian-style bistro tucked into San Francisco’s Cole Valley, invites you to join their annual Beaujolais Nouveau celebration on November 21st. This cozy neighborhood spot is transforming for one night only, offering a three-course prix fixe dinner designed to complement the lively, fruity character of this year’s Beaujolais Nouveau. Toast the season with curated selections of young Beaujolais Nouveau and rich, complex Cru Beaujolais wines available by the glass, all enjoyed in Zazie’s warm, intimate setting. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and classic French fare, Zazie offers the perfect ambiance for a festive evening filled with French-inspired flavors, community spirit, and a touch of holiday magic.
Price: Prix fixe $95/$115 per person or à la carte
More information and reservations here
Alliance Française Silicon Valley Beaujolais Nouveau Tasting & Movie Night
Palo Alto, CA
Date: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM
Silicon Valley isn’t just about breakthrough technology; it’s also embracing the vibrant French community and culture found there. The local French language and cultural center, Alliance Française Silicon Valley (AFSV), is set to immerse enthusiasts in an enchanting celebration of this year’s Beaujolais Nouveau release. This captivating event will feature a delightful double bill – a wine tasting extravaganza coupled with the timeless allure of a classic French film screening of Plein Soleil (“Purple Noon”), featuring the iconic Alain Delon. Whether you’re a fervent wine aficionado or a cinema connoisseur, this is the perfect opportunity to indulge in a splendid evening of sipping, French bites, and unwinding in great company. Be sure to secure your spot in advance, as spaces are limited.
Price: $15 for members, $20 for non-members, $25 at the door
More details and tickets here
Amelie Café & Wine Bar’s Beaujolais Nouveau Day Celebration
Fairfax, CA
Date: Thursday, November 21, 2024
Time: 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM
Get ready to savor the vibrant world of Beaujolais wines at the enchanting sister location of San Francisco’s Amelie Wine Bar in Marin County. For just $15, wine enthusiasts can delight in generous flights offering a mix-and-match selection of Beaujolais Nouveau, Cru Beaujolais, and Beaujolais Villages. This unique opportunity allows both novices and Beaujolais connoisseurs alike to explore and appreciate the distinct characteristics of each wine. Alternatively, guests can opt to enjoy these exquisite wines by the glass, perfectly paired with a specially curated three-course dinner. Indulge in delectable dishes like coq au vin, wild mushroom risotto, and roasted salmon with hazelnut Romanesco, served alongside their regular menu offerings.
Price: À la carte, or prix fixe menu at $65 per person
More information and reservations here
Left Bank Brasserie’s Annual Beaujolais Nouveau Celebration
Multiple Locations: Larkspur, Menlo Park, San Jose
Dates: Thursday, November 21 – Saturday, November 23, 2024
All Left Bank Brasserie locations are pulling out the stops this November with Beaujolais Nouveau tastings, live music, and seasonal French dishes. It’s a festive experience with a touch of rustic French elegance, and features wines from Georges Duboeuf, the King of Beaujolais Nouveau 2024.
Price: À la carte
More details here
Orange County
Laguna Beach Sister City Association Beaujolais Nouveau Dinner
C’est La Vie Restaurant, Laguna Beach, CA
Date: Thursday, November 21, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM
With its stunning ocean views, C’est La Vie in Laguna Beach is a fantastic place to enjoy a special three-course Beaujolais Nouveau dinner. Options include filet mignon, salmon, or a vegetarian selection, each paired with two glasses of Beaujolais Nouveau. This festive event is open to members and non-members alike, and blends the best of French tradition with Laguna Beach’s coastal beauty.
Price: $65 for members, $75 for non-members
More details here
Alliance Française de la Riviera Californienne’s Beaujolais Nouveau Sip ’N Paint
Newport Beach, CA
Date: Thursday, November 21, 2024
Time: 6:30 PM
This interactive Sip ’N Paint event hosted by the Alliance Française offers guests a chance to get creative while celebrating Beaujolais Nouveau. Guests will enjoy a glass (or two) of the new vintage while painting their own artwork in a relaxed, sociable setting, and will also have the opportunity to practice their French skills French with native speakers. It’s a perfect way to enjoy these wine while trying something new.
Price: $20 for members, $30 for non-members, $45 at the door
More details here
Los Angeles and Southern California
Photo credit: Ester Wine Shop & Bar
Monsieur Marcel French Beaujolais Dinner
Los Angeles, CA
Date: Thursday, November 21, 2024
Time: 5:45 PM – 8:45 PM
Get ready to savor a mouthwatering feast as Chef Christophe Breat takes center stage at Monsieur Marcel in Los Angeles, serving up a delectable, French-inspired menu that perfectly harmonizes with the essence of Beaujolais Nouveau. Picture yourself indulging in a culinary escapade, exploring delightful offerings like succulent seared bone marrow, decadent truffle-topped Raviole de Royan, and sinfully rich Baba au Rhum. As if this delectable spread wasn’t enough, live accordion music will transport you to the charming streets of Paris, creating an irresistible ambiance. Whether you’re a devoted Francophile or a fervent wine aficionado, this evening promises to be a captivating celebration of joie de vivre, guaranteed to leave an indelible mark on your palate and your heart.
Price: À la carte
More details here
Coucou French Classes Beaujolais Nouveau Celebration
Los Angeles, CA
Date: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Coucou French Classes invites Francophiles and wine lovers alike to an evening of Beaujolais Nouveau festivities, blending French culture, language, and wine. This immersive celebration at their Los Angeles location is the perfect way to toast the year’s first pour of Beaujolais Nouveau with fellow enthusiasts in a fun, French-inspired atmosphere. The evening will feature a tasting of vibrant, fruity Beaujolais Nouveau, paired with classic French bites, games, and cultural activities that capture the lively spirit of a true French gathering. Guided by Coucou’s team of native-speaking instructors, guests can practice conversational French and enjoy a slice of Paris right in L.A.
Price: $19 per person
More details and tickets here
Le Chêne Beaujolais Nouveau Dinner
Santa Clarita, CA
Date: Thursday, November 21, 2024
Time: 6:30 PM
Amidst the picturesque hills of Santa Clarita, Le Chêne beckons with its irresistible French country allure, setting the stage for an enchanting Beaujolais Nouveau dinner. Embark on a culinary odyssey through this four-course extravaganza, where you’ll delight in a delicate Swiss cheese soufflé, savor the succulent flavors of roasted chicken adorned with fresh herb jus, and culminate your feast with a decadent apple tarte paired with vanilla ice cream. Imagine yourself immersed in the rustic elegance of the countryside, reveling in the warmth of good company and the aromas of divine French cuisine.
Price: $100 per person
More details here
Ester Wine Shop & Bar’s Beaujolais Nouveau Party
Santa Monica, CA
Date: Thursday, November 21, 2024
Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Join the fun at Ester Wine Shop & Bar for a casual, neighborhood Beaujolais Nouveau party. Guests can enjoy a tasting of several Beaujolais wines, light bites, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for celebrating with friends. Ester’s knowledgeable team will be on hand to discuss each wine, making it both an educational and festive experience.
Price: À la carte
More details here
Saint James French Diner’s Beaujolais Nouveau Dinner
Palihotel, San Diego, CA
Date: Saturday, November 23, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM
At the stylish Palihotel, Saint James French Diner brings a chic French twist to the classic American diner, and their three-course Beaujolais Nouveau dinner will celebrate the wine’s 2024 release with thoughtfully paired dishes. Start with a Lobster & Leek Terrine and Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Rosé Nouveau, followed by a choice of Halibut with Blood Orange Beurre Blanc or Filet Medallions with Blackberry Gastrique, both served with Beaujolais Nouveau. Finish with a Smoked Custard Crème Brûlée and Clarified Biscotti Milk Punch. The retro ambiance and refined flavors make for an unforgettable Beaujolais celebration.
Price: $65 per person
More details and reservations here
Pair Beaujolais Nouveau with Thanksgiving Dishes
Whether you seek a lavish French soirée or a laid-back wine bar ambiance, California’s Beaujolais Nouveau celebrations cater to every wine enthusiast. Save the dates, secure your tickets, and prepare to embrace this spirited French tradition with a Californian flair. Before bidding adieu to the festivities, be sure to purchase a few bottles to extend the celebration through Thanksgiving. Remember, all Beaujolais wines are a delightful complement to turkey, cranberry sauce, and even marshmallow-topped yams. As they say in France, à la vôtre!
