Every November, wine enthusiasts worldwide celebrate the arrival of Beaujolais Nouveau, a light and fruity red wine that marks the culmination of the Gamay grape harvest in France’s Beaujolais region. What makes Beaujolais Nouveau special is its youthfulness—it’s made to be enjoyed just weeks after fermentation, and represents the first taste of that year’s harvest. With its bright flavors of red berries and minimal tannins, this wine pairs beautifully with the rich, diverse flavors of a Thanksgiving feast and has come to resonate with American Thanksgiving traditions, leading many Indiana wineries to craft their own Nouveau wines.

What Makes Nouveau Wines Unique

Nouveau wines, including Beaujolais Nouveau, are crafted using a technique called carbonic maceration, which ferments whole grape clusters in a low-oxygen environment. This method accentuates fresh, fruity flavors while minimizing bitterness. The result? A wine that is approachable, unpretentious, and perfect for drinking immediately—no aging required. Nouveau wines have become synonymous with celebration, heralding the transition from autumn’s harvest to the festive season.

Indiana Uplands: Crafting Their Own Nouveau Wines

The Indiana Uplands, a unique American Viticultural Area (AVA) in southern Indiana, is home to a burgeoning wine scene and many winemakers are joining in the fun. Here, local wineries are embracing the spirit of nouveau wines by crafting their own youthful reds, often using grapes like Chambourcin, Marechal Foch, or other cold-hardy varietals suited to the region.

Wineries in the Indiana Uplands celebrate the arrival of their nouveau wines with festivals and tastings, much like the tradition in Beaujolais. These wines capture the essence of the year’s harvest, showcasing the area’s unique terroir while offering a fresh and exciting option for the Thanksgiving table. Whether you’re sipping a light, berry-forward Chambourcin Nouveau or a sprightly Marechal Foch, Indiana’s interpretations bring a local flavor to this beloved tradition.

Bringing Nouveau to Your Table

Whether you choose a French Beaujolais Nouveau or an Indiana Uplands creation, these young wines are a delightful way to toast to the season. Their vibrancy and versatility make them a perfect companion to turkey, cranberry sauce, and all the trimmings. So, as you gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, consider raising a glass of nouveau wine—a celebration of the harvest, the season, and the joy of sharing good food and drink.

Cheers to traditions old and new!