Vin nouveau

Vin Nouveau is a type of wine that is typically released in the same year it is harvested. This style of wine is also known as nouveau or new wine. The most famous example of vin nouveau is Beaujolais Nouveau, which is released on the third Thursday of November each year.

History

The tradition of vin nouveau dates back to ancient times, when wine making was a common practice in many cultures. The concept of releasing a young wine soon after harvest was a way to celebrate the end of the grape harvest and to provide a preview of the quality of the year's vintage.

In the 20th century, the tradition of vin nouveau was popularized by the Beaujolais region of France, where the release of Beaujolais Nouveau has become a major event in the wine calendar.

Production

Vin nouveau is made using a process called carbonic maceration, which allows the wine to be ready for consumption just weeks after the grapes are harvested. This process involves fermenting whole grapes in a carbon dioxide-rich environment, which results in a wine with bright, fruity flavors and low tannins.

Characteristics

Vin nouveau wines are typically light-bodied and fruity, with flavors of red fruit, banana, and bubblegum. They are meant to be consumed young and are not typically suitable for aging.

Regions

While Beaujolais is the most famous region for vin nouveau, this style of wine is produced in many other regions around the world. In Italy, it is known as vino novello, and in the United States, it is often referred to as nouveau or new wine.

See also

• Beaujolais Nouveau
• Wine making
• Carbonic maceration